Are you game to help our wounded heroes?

 

Cheshire East’s mayor is urging people to donate DVDs and computer games ­– to help give a boost to our wounded soldiers.

Mayor Gordon Baxendale says the gifts will help troops of 1st Battalion The Mercian Regiment (Cheshire) cope better during the weeks and even months of hospital treatment and rehabilitation following serious injury in Afghanistan.

Donated computer consoles, games (especially PlayStation 3 games) and DVDs will be used by wounded soldiers of ‘The Cheshires’ recovering after their evacuation from the frontline in Helmand Province.

Councillor Baxendale said: “The Cheshires are on the frontline of the fight against the Taliban in Helmand and, regrettably, are taking frequent casualties.

“Our servicemen and women put their life on the line for us. So in return, we must help ensure that these brave soldiers are cared for and supported if they are wounded.

“It is important to remember that for every one of our soldiers killed, about seven others are wounded. Some of these injuries can be devastating and take many months of hospital treatment – so it is important that we help provide our wounded men and women with entertainments and distractions to help the hours and weeks pass more quickly and pleasantly.

“I really would encourage people to show their support for the fantastic bravery and stoicism of our wounded servicemen and women.”

Donated items can be handed in at all main Cheshire East Council’s offices, leisure centres and libraries. Please put items (genuine merchandise only, please – no counterfeit goods) in bags/envelopes and label them: Mercians DVDs/Games.

Alternatively, contact 1 Mercian support group volunteer Jill Dolman on 0782 7415686.

Wounded 1 Mercian soldiers are being treated in the UK at Selly Oak Hospital in Birmingham, Southport Hospital and Headley Court Military Hospital in Surrey.

Cllr Baxendale has named ABF The Soldiers’ Charity as one of the organisations he is fundraising for during his tenure as mayor. He is also raising money for the 1 Mercian (Cheshire) families’ support group.