Four months for ending Adrian's GB career

A DISABLED international sword fencer who has been forced to retire following a burglary at his home involving the theft of specialist sporting equipment, has hit out at a four month prison sentence imposed on one of those involved in the crime.
Anthony Lee Cottam, aged 34 of Malpass Drive, Great Sankey, Warrington, was jailed four months yesterday, Tuesday, after pleading guilty to handling stolen goods taken during the burglary.
No evidence was offered against a second man while a third man denied the offence and had the case adjourned for trial.
Speaking after the case Adrian,aged 38, from Leicester Street, Warrington, (pictured right) said:”For a Burglary that has ended my GB career, battling through a life threatening illness while still achieving so much, this is not the end that I had wanted for my career.
“Receiving a four month jail sentence for this crime is appalling and upsetting.”
Adrian said he had now decided to retire from full international duty due to the burglary which had involved the theft of specialist equipment worth tens of thousands of pounds.
Although some items had been recovered many specialist items, including children’s training gear, were still missing.
Adrian added: “I will be raising money for the children’s equipment that was stolen and I will be concentrating on coaching children and promoting a “Can Do” attitude.
He will also dedicate more time to charity work, workshops for the community and helping organisations regarding disability awareness and access.
“I will also help with the Stamp Out Stigma Campaign for Hate Crimes regarding Disability and I will also be writing a book about my life, my illness and will also continue my motivational speaking and public appearances regarding positive attitudes and awareness.”
The former British wheelchair fencing national champion launched a major public appeal to track down the raiders after the equipment was stolen from his home.
He took up fencing after he was left confined to a wheelchair when his life was turned upside down when the lights literally went out as he was finishing a day at work at Starbucks four years ago.
He suffered a brain haemorrhage that left him critically ill.
But he bounced back showing true determination as he took up wheelchair fencing.
Last year he had hoped to compete inthe Paralympics and was given the honour of carrying a torch but had to withdraw from the event through injury.
Adrian competed in two categories, Epee and Sabre at an international level. He has won various medals including two Domestic Gold Medals and three Domestic Silver Medals and a National Championship.