PEOPLE from a Monmouthshire village played tug of war, wanged wellies and raced with eggs and spoons as they raised money for a local man left paralysed following a devastating accident.
Over 100 people were at Mathern Athletic Club yesterday, with organisers hoping that an Old Skool Sports Day would raise around £700 for the Dan Black Fund.
An amazing £16,000 has already been raised for the 22-year-old, who collided with a car while riding on the A48 in Chepstow last December.
People of all ages competed in welly wanging, three-legged races, tug-of-war, wheelbarrow races and skipping.
There was also a coconut shy, stocks, cakes and a sweet store, while others tried to kick footballs through tyres.
Dan’s mother, Michaela Black, said the turn-out was “unbelievable”, and said such events were what “keeps his spirits up”.
She said: “Dan is now able to swallow and talk properly. He has come to terms with the fact he won’t walk again, but everyone is raising money in case that miracle turns up one day. You never know.”
Mr Black hasn’t started rehabilitation yet and faces another nine months at Rookwood Hospital. But, his mother said friends have been “amazing”, visiting and keeping in touch on Facebook.
Monday’s event was organised by close family friend Tracy Cameron, described by Mrs Black as “one in a million” for all her fund-raising work.
After a band night at Mathern Village Hall that raised £7,000, an Old Skool Sports Day was decided as the next event for Bank Holiday Monday.
Mrs Cameron said: “It’s great that the village has come together for Dan.”
His close friend Hayley Baldwin, 18, from Itton, said: “I’m doing the three-legged race. Everyone here is behind Dan.”
Phil Davies, 34, from Bulwark, said: “The weather’s holding off and we are just going to have a good time and raise as much as possible.”
To donate, phone Mrs Cameron on 07769502981.
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