My name is Craig Wright. Wrighty to my friends. You may remember me as a tough and uncompromising forward for amateur rugby league team Queens, semi-pro teams Oldham, York and Batley as well as a memorable pro stint at Castleford in the Super League era under Stuart Raper.

Tough and uncompromising maybe, but we all have feelings as well and in 2008 my world fell apart when my beloved only child Andrew was diagnosed with Burkitt's Lymphoma (a cancer of the lymphatic system) at the age of just 12.

As you'll understand everything else in life went on hold. Nothing else mattered whatsoever other than to get my boy back to rude health. Ask anybody else who has been in my position and they'll all tell you the same - you want it to be you rather than that poor child and that's what makes it worse.

Over the ensuing period I witnessed many tragic sights and events involving poorly children. I don't need to enlarge, but the type that God willing you don't ever think you will ever witness and these events live with me to this day.

Fortunately, Andrew after a long period of treatment, got better and after undergoing a full remission period has recovered to a point where he is now living a normal healthy adult life.

Those dark days will never leave me though and Candlelight's were always there for me, my family and most importantly Andrew.

At the time I tried to show my respect for their involvement and organised a few events which raised four figures for their very noblest of causes. Now though, fully focused and as grateful as ever I want to get them five figures (the higher the better). With your help I am sure we can do this together. 

The task I have set myself is an easy one. No winner's medals involved, but simply to spend a full 12 month period (Jan 1 - Dec 31 2016) going without a shave or haircut (not even the odd trim allowed) both on any part of my head.

Grisly Adams won't even half go there - but I will 100% see out this task. For the benefit of Candlelighters that is a given.

Many Thanks for taking the time out to read this. Just remember every donation helps poorly children in the region - if there's a better cause I've yet to see it.

My last shave (both head and beard) will be in the Burley Conservative Club, Bankfield House, Bankfield Gardens, Burley, Leeds, LS4 2JS just before midnight on New Year's Eve. Effectively the full campaign launch why not come and have a drink with me there?

God bless from Wrighty.

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