A YOUNGSTER with Down syndrome has had a birthday party he will never forget.

Troy Thompson from Bromsgrove has the genetic disorder and every morning before going into Pitcheroak Special School he goes into Tesco Express in Brockhill.

There he helps staff with a number of jobs, such as unloading the bread and vegetables.

Staff have even got the proud youngster his own jacket and name badge.

Mum Tracey said what they do for him means the world to not only him, but the family as well.

"He absolutely loves going in there to help them," she said.

"The staff are amazing with him. Troy is so proud to be part of the team."

Troy turns 13 on February 25 but because he has to go into hospital days before the family were forced to cancel birthday plans.

When caring staff from Tesco found out they decided to hold a special early birthday party to make up for it.

Tracy said: "Managers Mark and Steph have taken him under their wing, what they did for him absolutely amazed me.

"They gave Troy a real party to remember."

She added: "Basically I cannot thank them enough. I wanted to show them how much they mean to us and what they do for Troy.

"It's given him independence. It's making him feel proud to be a part of something.

"My appreciation for what they do comes from the heart. They have made this boy so happy."