On July 5th Dartford CC is playing my "Invitation XI" to celebrate my being a member for over 50 years, over 40 of which was a playing member and included acting as Secretary and Chairman.

Last June I underwent major surgery to repair a ruptured aneurysm, a side effect of which is that I am now paraplegic from just below the waist.  I spent over 7 months in hospital, including a lengthy spell at the National Spinal Injury Centreb(NSIC), Stoke Mandeville for extensive rehabilitation and education about how to live as a wheelchair user.

I wish to show my appreciation for the help given to me by using this testimonial match to raise funds for the benefit of Stoke Mandeville. There is an "umbrella" charity called Buckinghamshire Healthcare Charitable Funds within which it is possible to specify that any funds raised are used for the benefit of the Stoke Mandeville Hospital Spinal Amenity Charity.  This is what I intend to do.

A spinal injury can be suffered by anyone regardless of age, indeed during the time I spent at NSIC there were patients using the gym whose age ranged from 10 to 80.  Therefore I hope you will support me and give generously to a worthwhile cause.

Donating through JustGiving is simple, fast and totally secure. Your details are safe with JustGiving – they’ll never sell them on or send unwanted emails. Once you donate, they’ll send your money directly to the charity and make sure Gift Aid is reclaimed on every eligible donation by a UK taxpayer. So it’s the most efficient way to donate - I raise more, whilst saving time and cutting costs for the charity.