THE Newport boy who was set alight by a gang of thugs was cheered yesterday as he led Newport County out onto the pitch.

Lloyd Bailey (pictured), 11, of Dudley Street, suffered burns to his face and hair after a lit can of petrol was thrown at him last month.

He only escaped major injury because quick-thinking garage workers doused him with water.

Police are still hunting his attackers.

But yesterday evening he was all smiles as he led the Exiles out into the driving rain for their home game against Weston-super-Mare.

Notes in the match programme read: "Lloyd Bailey is here as a result of being the victim of an appalling incident just a few weeks ago... We are delighted to help and aid Lloyd's recovery by giving him the opportunity to lead out the team, and thanks must also go out to Mike Chick of Croydon Coaches for helping to make the arrangements."

Newport County chairman Wallace Brown said: "The lad's gone through a terrible ordeal, and if we can help him along, that's great." Lloyd's father, Jason, 30, said: "When Lloyd found out he was over the moon.

"After he led them out he had dinner with the team, and he got a football signed by all the players."

Lloyd said: "I'm excited. I had to run out on the pitch with the football. "I would like to play football myself, and I'm going to ask them if I can play midfield."