Charity cycle exceeds expectations

Last month Royal British Legion Club President Raymond Corbett cycled from Cork RBL to Lisburn RBL in a day less than expected in aid of the Andrew Allen Wheelchair Appeal.

Andrew, who is also a local man, was only 19 when he was caught in a bomb explosion in Afghanistan in July 2008 while serving with the Royal Irish Regiment. He lost both of his legs and has only 30% vision in his right eye. Raymond wanted to do something to help and decided to try and raise the 3000 needed for Andrew's dream wheelchair.

Following the charity cycle Raymond said: "The journey was hard and sore but all worthwhile. It was nothing compared to what are soldiers go through in Afghanistan.

"The amount we hoped to raise was 3000, however with the generosity of not only local people but those throughout the province as well as donations from as far as Kenya, England, Scotland, and Wales and of course the South of Ireland, the result was totally amazing - a total to date 5,392.05, nearly double our target, with donations still coming in.

"We received donations from all over the country, many anonymous, from ex soldiers, pensioners and people from all walks of life. A local man and his wife sold their daughter's motorbike (with the daughter's permission of course) and gave all the proceeds to the appeal. Billy Chambers, whom I had never met before, came to my door after collecting over 1000 from pubs, clubs and individuals. One of the money bags he gave me contained 88 pence in one pence and five pence pieces - I found this totally amazing that some child had given their money over - it would bring a tear to your eye.

"The donation of a rocking horse was made to Andrews's son Carter by a gentleman from Lisburn and Carter absolutely loved it. All these donations make you feel there is still some humanity in the world today."

Raymond explained that because of the extra money now available Andrew will be able to get a few extras on his wheelchair.

"Andrew and I have discussed the issue of the extra amount and decided the remainder will stay in the Wheelchair Appeal to cover maintenance costs which will occur through time." I would like to take this opportunity on behalf of Andrew his wife Natalie, son Carter and myself to express our sincere gratitude for your kind donations which helped us raise our target and the letters of support were absolutely fantastic. God bless you all. This is what the Royal British Legion is all about," added Raymond