THE John Blower Trust has hit a milestone in its fundraising endeavours and has raised 50 per cent of its predicted target since the beginning of the year.

A recent cheque donation of £17,000 has tipped the scales and as a result the trust is now half way to reaching its £150,000 goal by the end of this year.

This latest contribution is the result of a sponsored walk that took place earlier in the year. Staff from a number Northwich-based businesses, including Northwich Glass, Hankinsons and Land Link, took the Three Peaks Challenge on April 3 and accrued more than 350 donations towards the fund.

The cheque was handed over to John at a special presentation on Saturday, June 12, at which MP Mike Hall also made a personal contribution.

Trust chairman Andy Naylor said: "Despite the fact John isn't feeling very well at the moment, he really wanted to thank everyone involved in the Three Peaks Challenge in person. He's been through a down period just lately and this has really boosted his morale again."

Andy said he was 'staggered' by the amount of support the local and sporting community has given to the fund since John was paralysed in a rugby scrum in December last year.

But although the fund is currently thriving, Andy acknowledged there was still a long way to go to make up the other £75,000 needed.

Two fundraising events have been organised for this month to help raise money for the trust.

A car boot sale will take place at Moss Farm sports complex, Moss Road, on Sunday, June 27, from 9am to 1pm. For further details call Paul Taylor on 01606 783668.

There will also be a craft fair at the Winnington Recreation Social Club on the same day between 10am and 4pm.

For details and bookings call Sheila Blower on 01606 75894.

gsproston@guardiangrp.co.uk