Harry’s message to say thank you

Harry Andrew

FAMILY and friends of Harry Andrew packed into Hotel Smokies Park to raise money for the Shaw Cricket Club stalwart.

Harry (pictured, inset) was paralysed when falling from a ladder at the Holebottom Clough ground in June.

The 76-year-old is at the North-West Injuries Regional Spinal Centre in Southport, from where he sent a recorded video message to a room of 250 people.

“There were a few tears in the house after that,” said son, Dave.

“He’s very positive, which is good, and we’re now waiting to see what happens next.

“I think people were surprised when they saw him say thank you and also how well he looked.”

The proceeds from the event, in the region of £8,000, will go towards the costs of any equipment Harry may need to make his future as comfortable as possible.

The evening featured a raffle and auction, as well as appearances from darts commentator John Gwynne and comedian Paul Squires.

Harry has been a familiar face around Shaw for many years, including his time spent working at Edgar Howarth’s butcher’s on Milnrow Road, Shaw.

Dave added: “From Harry’s friends, some of which going back to his childhood days, to the Austerlands and Glodwick clubs, who each had a table, the response on the night was tremendous.”

The Shaw club are planning other fund-raising events in the future.