Two Colchester United players gave fans an early Christmas treat with a special visit to the Co-op in Stanway today.

East Anglian Daily Times: Colchester United first team players Sammie Szmodics and Oluwasanmi Odelusi pictured signing autographs at the East of England Co-op store in Stanway, Colchester, with William and Edward Stonehouse. Picture: ROB HOWARTHColchester United first team players Sammie Szmodics and Oluwasanmi Odelusi pictured signing autographs at the East of England Co-op store in Stanway, Colchester, with William and Edward Stonehouse. Picture: ROB HOWARTH (Image: �Anglia Picture Agency)

First team stars Sammie Szmodics and Oluwasanmi Odelusi visited the East of England Co-op store, on Peartree Road, to meets fans, sign autographs and pose for photographs.

Many young fans took the opportunity for a selfie with their heroes, ahead of the U’s busy Christmas schedule.

Co-op staff handed out free sweets and Christmas stickers, and every customer will receive two free tea bags as part of the company’s Tea for Two initiative to encourage conversation this Christmas over a cuppa.

Lynn Warner, community events manager at Co-op, said: “It was fantastic to have Colchester United players Sammie and Oluwasanmi come to the store today. “It really added to the festivities and was a lovely opportunity for the young fans to meet some of their footballing heroes.”