A CHILDREN’S cancer charity has been given almost £12,500 by a Worcester Warriors rugby star.
Chris Pennell raised the money for the Grace Kelly Childhood Cancer Trust during his testimonial year at the club last year, and chose the charity for personal reasons.
Mr Pennell, who has played for Warriors since 2007, said: “We came across the Grace Kelly Childhood Cancer Trust through friends of ours, Mark and Lucy Flanaghan, who knew Grace and her family through their journey.
“It became an easy decision to support them from there. The strength they continue to show in making something so positive, from a situation parents shouldn’t have to go through, was at the time and even more so now, incredibly inspiring.
“They are genuinely some of the most amazing people we’ve come across and words can’t do justice to the invaluable work they do.”
Just under £37,500 was raised by Mr Pennell's testimonial year committee, CP15 Testimonial, and that has been split between three charities: Diabetes UK, Acorns Children’s Hospice and the Grace Kelly Childhood Cancer Trust.
Jen Kelly, founder of the Grace Kelly Childhood Cancer Trust, said: “I would like to give our immense thanks to Chris Pennell, his wife Jo and the whole Chris Pennell Testimonial committee for their kindness, support and dedication to make this donation possible.
“Over the festive period, we received confirmation from the Chris Pennell Testimonial Committee that the trust would be receiving an incredible £12,475 from the fundraising efforts held during Chris’ testimonial season.
“The funds raised will help make a difference to the lives of children fighting cancer.”
Lynette Cutting, chair of CP15 Testimonial, said: “It has been a pleasure getting to know the team at the Grace Kelly Childhood Cancer Trust and to learn more about the incredible work they do to support the many families affected by childhood cancer.
“Chris and Jo (Chris' wife) were thrilled they were able to use the Testimonial Year to raise awareness and funds for three charities close to their hearts.
“Thank you to all who came to the CP15 events over the course of the year and please do continue to support the wonderful testimonial charities.”
READ MORE:
A443 Worcester Road blocked due to fallen tree and power line
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here