Friends pull together to help arena bomb family
FRIENDS of a father paralysed in the Manchester terror attack, who is now being treated at Southport Hospital, are launching a fundraising appeal.
As a result of the attack two months ago Martin Hibbert, who was only metres away from the bomb when it detonated, is now paralysed from the waist down and will be dependent on a wheelchair.
Friends of the 40-year-old from Bolton have come together to raise money for Martin and his family.
Martin’s daughter Eve was also injured during the bomb attack after the Ariana Grande concert on May 22.
Martin’s school friends have set up a JustGiving page on which they have set the target amount of money to be raised at £25,000.
So far almost £14,000 has been donated via the fundraising page.
On the JustGiving page, the organisers wrote of Martin and his daughter: “Both are very poorly, the little girl even more so, and neither are going to make a speedy recovery, as both sustained life-changing injuries of the worst kind.
“It is clear that both will need long-term financial support.”
In order to raise funds, 12 of Martin’s school friends are organising three fundraising events that they are seeking sponsorship for.
All money raised will go to Martin and his family.
The events include a 30-mile sponsored walk across three peaks of Lancashire – Rivington Pike, Darwen Tower and Peel Tower, which is set to take place on Sunday, August 27.
A celebrity 20/20 Cricket Match is also scheduled at Edgworth Cricket Club in Bolton on Sunday, September 3.
Amongst the confirmed players attending the free entry event are footballer Kevin Davies, cricketer Ronnie Irani, actor Colson Smith and many more.
There will also be a barbecue, live music, a raffle, cocktails and much more on offer.
Lastly, they have arranged a half-marathon in Manchester on Sunday, October 15.
If you would like to find out more about these events, visit the Friends of Martin Hibbert Facebook page, and if you would like to make a donation, go to www.justgiving.com/crowdfunding/martinandevehibbert.