A DISABLED international sword fencer who had his career cut short following a burglary at his Warrington home has bounced back with his community work, thanks to a generous donation.
Gold medallist Adrian Derbyshire, who had the honour of being the only person in the UK to be involved in both the Olympic and Paralympic Games Torch events, has nwo been able to continue coaching children following a donation by EHI Support Ltd, based in Winsford.
The donation meant he could buy enough equipment to coach up to 10 youngsters and now he is looking for further support to expand his community work.
Adrian, aged 39, who was forced to retire from international competitions following the burglary, said: “Police found one of the stolen bags but unfortunately, the equipment in it had been broken.
“But I was more concerned for the children’s equipment to be found as it’s expensive, custom made and I’ve coached close to 3000 children in three-and-a-half years and I didn’t want to let them down. Unfortunately none of the children’s equipment was found but through media coverage of the burglary EHI Support Limited, approached me and asked what they could do to help. I mentioned the children’s equipment that needed to be replaced and they sent me a cheque which gave me the opportunity to purchase equipment for 10 children.
“I can now continue to coach, but would like to encourage other donations to help build up the equipment needed for the children.
“I could have given up after the burglary, but community projects, including schools, colleges and charity work, are still a big part of my life and through sport, I want to inspire others to show them that anything can be achieved.”
The specialist equipment stolen during the burglary was worth tens of thousands of pounds.
The former British wheelchair fencing national champion from Leicester Street, Warrington, 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 nearly five 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.
Adrian competed in two categories, Epee and Sabre at an international level, winning various medals including two Domestic Gold Medals and three Domestic Silver Medals and a National Championship.
Pictures show Adrian with Students from Warrington Collegiate being taught fencing with the new equipment. He is also pictured with his Olympic torch.
Adrian bounces back thanks to donation!
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