LUKE Hopper became one of the youngest players to feature in a Screwfix match and the third generation in his family to play for Devizes on Saturday.

The 15-year-old, of Saurm Drive, Devizes, came on as a second half substitute in the 2-1 defeat to Torrington after replacing the injured Graham Ford.

The young midfielder followed in the footsteps of his father Gary and his grandfather Keith, who have all played for the Nursteed Road outfit.

Assistant manager of Devizes Town John Freegard was delighted with the youngsters contribution and thought Hopper deserved his selection.

He said: "We brought him on in the last 20 minutes and he did extremely well.

"We gave him his debut in a difficult game. He showed a great attitude and is definitely one for the future.

"He has done well for the reserves and we decided to give him his chance. I would have liked to introduce players when we are on a better run than we are now."

The youngster was pleasantly surprised with his call up to the first team.

"Freegie (John Freegard) told me at Thursday's training session that I would be on the bench," Hopper said.

"I got really excited as I was not expecting it. At the beginning of the season I started playing for the U16s and was delighted when they asked me to play for the U18s.

"I thought that would be it and aimed to push for the reserves next season. I was even more pleased when I was called up to the reserves. I have played three games for them so far.

"My expectations have been smashed and I was so pleased to take part in the game."

But the determined youngster was not pleased with his performance.

He said: "I only had about 15 minutes and did not get to see much of the ball. There are some players returning next week so I don't think I will be featuring.

"When I get my next chance I will be looking for a better performance and maybe my first Devizes goal."

He says he was not daunted by the prospect of playing against adults.

"I have done well in the reserves and I don't feel that I am out of depth. There is a big difference between the Screwfix and U18 but I cope fine," he said.

The player, who has been with Devizes since playing at U9 level, said he would never dream of joining another Screwfix side.

"My dad and granddad both played for Devizes and I would not want to play for anybody else.

"I came up here as a young kid and watched my dad play on many occasions. It is nice to keep up the tradition, if I have a boy one day I'm sure he will end up playing for Devizes."

His father Gary, 39, played mainly for the reserves but did break into the first side for two seasons.

The right wing back, who is now a committee member, is pleased and proud to see his son playing for Devizes. He said: "I was born and bred in Devizes so I'm delighted Luke has decided to play for them. It is fantastic to see him feature in the side at such a young age, it was totally unexpected.

"I see a little of myself in him when I watch him play. He has the same enthusiasm for the club that my father and I have.

"The club has been a big part of my life and it is great to see him at the club where I have spent so much time."

Hopper's grandfather, Keith, played for Town from 1957 to 1966 before a serious knee injury ended his playing days. The ex-player was upset that he was not present to see Hopper's debut.

He said: "I go and watch him play as much as I can. I did not know he was on the bench on Saturday or else I would have been there.

"I have seen him play for Wiltshire but will make sure I'm there for his next game. "I'm very proud of Luke and he is a talented player."

The grandfather moved to Devizes from his place of birth, Hull, in 1955. He then played for Devizes when England World Cup hero Roger Hunt was a guest in the side.

Luke's younger brother Jack, 12 is already showing similar promise. He is playing in Devizes' U14 team.