YEOVIL NEWS: Howzat – Veterans Charity replaces stolen cricket gear for disabled former soldier

DISABLED cricketer Michael Day is still hoping that his stolen cricket gear will be returned although the thieves have not stopped him from playing – thanks to the Yeovil Press.

The Yeovil Press reported earlier this week that former soldier Michael, who plays for the Help for Heroes disabled team, had had his cricket gear stolen from his truck which had been parked in Yeovil.

Michael (pictured above), who served with The Rifles Regiment, was injured by a hand grenade whilst on tour in Afghanistan in 2009. He suffered spinal injuries, brain damage and had been left with Post Traumatic Stress Disorder.

He was left gutted by the theft of his cricket gear as he told the Yeovil Press that cricket was becoming an important part of his rehabilitation.

The Veterans Charity saw the story on social media and after discussing the situation with Michael they were able to source replacements for the items he had lost.

“We were appalled to read a story on Yeovil Press about Michael who had lost all of his much-prized cricket gear when thieves broke into this vehicle,” said a spokesman for The Veterans Charity.

“Whilst some cricket gear may not be considered by some as essential, to Michael, they mean vital exercise, a hobby he really enjoys where he can interact with others in a similar situation to him and something to look forward to each week.

“We wish Michael the very best with this weekend’s game and we sincerely hope that he continues to progress and enjoy his sport.”

Although Michael would dearly love to have his own cricket gear returned because of their sentimental value, he has been humbled by the support he has received.

“I was supposed to be playing this weekend with the Help for Heroes and thought I would have to miss out on that, but now I will be able to play,” said Michael.

“It’s very humbling that The Veterans Charity has done this for me.”

Among the items stolen from Michael’s truck were a Kookaburra kit bag which contained his bat, gloves, pads, protective gear, cricket whites, trainers and tracksuit. Anyone with information is invited to contact police on 101.

The Veterans Charity was founded in March 2008 to support UK veterans of all generations.

They provide fast, direct support to veterans facing hardship and distress.

They supply essential items including food shopping, clothing, household goods like kitchenware and furniture and even mobile phones to aid vital communications.

Since 2011 the charity has helped more than 1,000 veterans.

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