Oldest football heads to the World Cup

Ryanair flew the oldest football in the world yesterday from Prestwick to Hamburg Lubeck Airport in Germany, where it is due to feature in an exhibition tied to the World Cup.

And to celebrate the occasion, the low-cost airline has launched a seat sale with flights on offer from as little as 14p (excluding taxes and charges).

The ball dates back to the sixteenth century, is made from a pig's bladder and is thought to have been used by Mary Queen of Scots. It will feature in the Fascination Football exhibition in Hamburg.

The ball was checked in under the name of Mr A Football and had its own seat on the Ryanair flight.

Ryanair spokesman Karl Hogstadius said: "Flying the oldest football in the world is yet another milestone for Ryanair. The valuable ball was well taken care of and arrived on time in Hamburg Lubeck."

The cheap seats on offer are to destinations including St Etienne, Lyon and Blackpool, for travel between May 12 and July 13, as well as between September 1 and September 25.

The booking period runs until Thursday, May 4.

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