A FATHER from Tetbury who sustained life-changing injuries in a swimming pool accident while on holiday has been presented with a cheque by Tetbury Lions. 

Ben Wernham was on holiday in Cyprus last year with his partner and two daughters were an accident resulted in three breaks in his neck and a damage to his spinal cord. 

Now, several months after the incident, his family members are having to come to terms with Ben's life as a tetraplegic (complete or partial loss of use of all limbs and torso. 

After months on a ventilator, he is now able to breathe by himself and is able to spend time in a specialised wheelchair. 

However, it will be some time before the family can be together again at home.

Considerable funds were needed to install appropriate access and to extend the family's property. Ben will also require a specialist live-in carer.

When told of the local man's tragic story, Tetbury Lions quickly got behind a campaign to raise awareness of the plight of Ben's family in the hope that people can help.

They held raffles and other fundraising events throughout December. 

Recently, Lion president Alan Cross presented the family with a cheque for £1,500.

Accepting the cheque Ella said she was amazed at the support from Tetbury Lions coming at a time of great need and that “it significantly contributed to family life, which is so important.”

Ben added his personal thanks to the Lions: “for what they have done for my family and me. You have brought us together when we are so far apart.” 

To donate to the Bring Ben Home campaign visit gogetfunding.com/best4ben or donate through facebook.com/best4ben.