Jay Beatty shines like a superstar at BBC Sports Personality awards

Jay Beatty with Republic of Ireland manager Martin O'Neill

Little Jay sparkled on the red carpet as scores of snappers sought his photo.

And in the VIP lounge before glittering ceremony, top sports icons lined up to have their picture taken with the 11-year-old Tannaghmore Primary School pupil.

Dressed in a dapper tuxedo with top hat, Jay, who had made Lurgan proud this past few years with amazing achievements, was a major it with the top stars.

Jay, with his father Martin, were special guests at a pre-show party and were in the VIP area where they met all the stars.

Dad Martin said: “The majority of the stars all knew who Jay was, which is very humbling.

“It was an amazing night and everyone was so kind,” he said.

Martin said that of all those Jay met, Martin O’Neill, manager of the Republic of Ireland soccer team, was his favourite.

Jay Beatty with AP McCoy who won a Lifetime Achievement award at the BBC Sports Personality of the Year

He said many of the stars were keen to hear all about Jay and his support for Celtic and his role as Ambassador for Celtic FC.

Jay, who has Downs Syndrome, has been a catalyst for his parents to start the charity Downs and Proud which aims to dispel myths about Downs and help young parents and children with Downs Syndrome.

Some of those who met Jay were Formula One ace Eddie Irvine, NI Manager Michael O’Neill,TV actor Jimmy Nesbitt, boxer Carl Frampton, jockey AP McCoy, Deputy First Minister Martin McGuinness, TV presenter Eamon Holmes and many more.