One step at a time

Fund-raisers are preparing for a moonlit walk around Hollingworth Lake to aid the recovery of a Shaw man.

Popular Fletcher Hunt was left critically ill after suffering a brain aneurysm last October but is battling back to health.

He has been recovering at the Floyd Unit for neurological rehabilitation at Rochdale’s Birch Hill Hospital but is set to be allowed home soon.

Family and friends are rallying around to help and want to raise money to buy an electric wheelchair.

The sponsored walk takes place on Saturday 19 September at 7pm and involves strolling four times around the lake — a total of 10 miles.

Fletcher’s wife Lorraine said: “The wheelchairs range from £2,000 to £9,000. We just want to make as much money as we can. Anything over £1,000 would be great so we can put it towards the chair.

“Fletcher is doing a lot better in himself and he’s the same cheeky character. He’s been in the unit for nine months now, which is a long time. We just have to hope that he keeps improving.”

Fletcher — described as a gentle giant — fell ill five months after marrying Lorraine and three days after his 42nd birthday.

He was left in intensive care and had to endure several operations with doctors fearing the worst.

But with the love and support of Lorraine, his three boys and their family and friends, he is continuing to pull through.

The walk has been organised by friend Jackie Livesey who can provide sponsorship forms or accept donations on 01706 849096.