Young photographer's day with Darren Bent

The eight-year-old from Whiston was hand-picked to snap Darren Bent at his Sunderland training ground, The Academy of Light.

Dryden was selected as part of the Disney XD Aim High scheme, which aims to encourage young boys to strive to reach their goals by giving them hands-on experience.

Dryden said: “I had a really good time and it was great to meet Darren Bent.

“I’m big football fan and support Arsenal, my favourite player is Cesc Fabregas.

“I play for the Whiston Wildcats and I am a striker, I would like to be a professional footballer one day.

“I did enjoy being behind the camera and doing something a bit different.”

As part of his prize, Dryden had a one-to-one tutorial with professional sports photographer Paul Kingston learning about their job and what it is like touring the country taking pictures at major football events.

The youngster also got the chance to put his new skill to the test and take exclusive shots of the Sunderland star in action.

Dryden was joined by two other youngsters as part of the day who learned about sports journalism and football.

Darren said: “It’s an honour to be involved and feels great to be able to share my skills and experience with the next generation.

“I feel passionately that, given the right tools and guidance, there’s no limit to what young people can achieve. I wish something like this had been around when I was a kid.”

Each month Disney XD’s Aim High gives kids across the country the chance to win a mentorship in a variety of professions including the sporting and music industries.

Along with Darren, rap-star Tinchy Stryder and The Simpsons director and producer Jeff Marsh have signed up to the scheme.

For more information visit www.disneyxd.co.uk/aimhigh.