Help us support Arron

1:36pm Monday 1st October 2007

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FAMILY and friends of a Pitsea police officer seriously injured in a rugby accident have set up a trust fund to aid his recovery.

Arron Williams, 25, from Benfleet, was playing rugby for Basildon First XV against South Woodham Ferrers, on September 15, when he suffered serious spinal injuries after a tackle in the last minute of the match.

Mr Williams, who attended King John School and Seevic College, Thundersley, is well-known as a talented sportsman.

But he has been told if his condition does not improve, he faces life as a tetraplegic.

His family and friends are now trying to raise money so he can have access to any equipment he may need when he leaves hospital.

Already more than 400 friends and relatives have been involved in setting up the trust, inspired by Mr Williams's courage in the face of adversity.

One relative, Sarah Chamberlain, 33, from Leigh, said: "My sister, Joanne, and Arron's brother, Lloyd, have been with him at Stoke Mandeville Hospital, a national spinal injuries centre.

"The whole family has been overwhelmed by his courage and optimism. At the moment, he has only limited movement in one arm and no movement from the neck down, which is heartbreaking for a man who loves life and is so fit.

"But it is Arron who is inspiring his family and friends because his spirit has remained so positive. He has been amazing."

Ms Chamberlain said Mr Williams's friends had offered to undertake challenges to show their support for him.

One friend has offered to rollerskate from Lands End to John o'Groats, while another is planning to swim the English Channel.

Anyone wishing to donate to the Arron Williams Trust Fund can pay in cash or a cheque to any branch of Lloyds TSB.

Cheques should be made payable to the Arron Williams Trust Fund.

Payments can also be made to the trust fund online. The bank account number is 11509168 and the sort code is 309426.

For more information about how you can show your support for Mr Williams, e-mail sarahchamberlainuk@ yahoo.co.uk