AYLBURTON man Tom Bendall, who fundraised for gym equipment at Castleford Lodge in Tutshill, had a chance to show off the gym to Paralympian gold medallist Andy Lewis recently.

Tom, who was severely injured in a collision with a car in 1998, raised over £2,000 last year by jumping off a 245ft high swing at the National Diving Centre near Chepstow.

His mother Pam Bendall said: “Milkwood Care, who run Castleford Lodge, donated £2,000 as well, making a total of £4,280. We were delighted with the support from everyone as this was far more than we expected to raise.  

“Tom’s personal trainer, Dan Hines, has overseen the purchase and installation of the gym equipment.  To date the gym, which already had some equipment, now has a Bosu balance trainer, a 43" television for rowing and cycling training videos, a cross-trainer, a cable machine with weights and a vibration plate. More items will be purchased as needed.

“Dan has already held a training session for staff and will be undertaking more in the future to enable staff to work with any clients wishing to use the gym.

“Madeleine Parsons, Castleford House manager, has been fully supportive of the fundraising initiative and she, Dan and the rest of her staff have really encouraged Tom and kept him motivated.

“It was a thrill for us all to meet Andy Lewis and to show him the newly equipped gym.  Andy was very encouraging to Tom, telling him of other disabled friends he had and promised to help him with any further ‘challenges’ he took on.

“Tom said he had really enjoyed meeting Andy and was inspired to carry on trying to reach his full potential within his limitations and that he was looking forward to his next challenge especially if Andy would do it with him.”