Saturday, 4th July 2009

News Archive

1st August 2006

Gary Norton with Des Brown

Gresley Rovers manager Gary Norton has helped boost the fund-raising campaign to enable a martial arts enthusiast receive pioneering treatment.

Des Brown, 37, of St Francis Road, Horninglow, was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis seven years ago. The father-of-two is a tae kwon do expert, but is now confined to a wheelchair and suffers from blurred vision and speech problems as a result of his illness.

£12,000 needed to be raised so that Des could travel to Holland to receive a radical stem cell treatment not yet available in this country.

In May, members of his family launched a fund-raising campaign and Gary Norton, who used to work with Mr Brown's brother, Albert, agreed to raise cash for the cause by taking part in the Mansfield Half-Marathon.

As a result of his efforts, Mr Norton raised £1,150, while a pitch side collection before The Moatmen's Bass Charity Vase match against Burton Albion on Friday also raised a further £156.42, taking the total figure generated in the last nine weeks soaring past the £7,500 mark.

Albert Brown, 43, of Anglesey Road, said: "Me and Gary go back a few years and we've worked together a couple of times, for a few years at BTR and then later at Bombadier, in Derby.

"We were delighted when he said he'd help us out — it's a real boost and takes us even closer to the £12,000 mark.

"We would like to thank everyone who has helped out so far — the response has been tremendous."

More information on the campaign can be found at www.help4des.com, or by telephoning Albert Brown on 01283 530987.

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