HAPPY MEALS will help ensure happy faces for young Pars fans who have the chance to lead out their heroes.

From next season, the football club have teamed-up with McDonald's as part of a deal that will see the popular fast-food chain sponsor Athletic's matchday mascot scheme.

A new and enhanced initiative, which will remain free of charge, will include mascots having their own host to guide them through the day ahead of meeting the players in the tunnel and leading them out for kick off, appearing on the official teamsheet, receiving two adult and one concession ticket for the match, their picture featured in the matchday programme, of which they will receive a complimentary copy, their name being read out over the club's tannoy system, and receiving a signed photo from the manager and a letter from the club's captain.

Michael Mlotkiewicz, Pars' general manager, said: "We are delighted that such an established brand like McDonald's have shown their support for the Football Club. We have been working effortlessly on all our commercial packages, and one we were keen to enhance was the mascot package for the next generation of Dunfermline Athletic supporters."

Adam Buchanan Smith, owner of the franchise at the Fife Leisure Park restaurant, said: "I’ve been a McDonald’s Franchisee in Dunfermline since 1999 and I’m extremely proud to part of this close-knit community. Our new sponsorship deal with Dunfermline Athletic presents a great opportunity to show support for our wonderful football club, it’s supporters and the town itself. It’s an exciting time to be a Pars fan and I’m delighted to be part of it. I’d like to wish the club all the best for the remainder of the season.”

Chairman Ross McArthur added: "I'd like to thank Adam and his team at McDonald's for their support towards Dunfermline Athletic Football Club. I am sure our supporters will be pleased with this new link up, and l am sure they will offer their support by visiting the Fife Leisure Park restaurant."