Pyjama trek raises £2k for dad Glyn

MORE than 40 fund-raisers braved the year's first winter chill to take part in a sponsored walk in their pyjamas.

Friends and family of Glyn Holland turned out in force at Westport Lake on Saturday to raise cash for the injured dad-of-one.

The 32-year-old, from Grasmere Terrace, Tunstall, required emergency treatment after he slipped and banged his head during a family holiday in Majorca.

The poolside accident left former removal man Glyn paralysed from the neck down.

He is currently recovering in Sheffield hospital.

His fiance Jenna Craik organised the sponsored walk to raise money to support his future needs.

The 27-year-old dispensary assistant said: "We went round the lake five times because that is the challenge that Glyn set us.

"He is doing really well and can talk to me again which was very emotional.

"I was so pleased with the turn out of people and the amount of support we have had for Glyn.

"I hadn't really expected the public to donate but people have obviously been touched by what has happened and have come along to support him."

The wrapped up walkers met at Westport lake for 10am in an array of pyjamas and nightgowns.

Close family members even had special cream dressing gowns made, with his name embroidered on the back.

Jenna said: "We decided to do it in our pyjamas to make it a bit more interesting and to have some fun.

"It has been such a difficult time for everyone that we wanted to do something positive that will still help with Glyn's care."

More than £2,000 was raised as a result of the walk.

The money will go towards travelling costs for Jenna to visit her fiance as well as adapting their home for wheelchair access.

Glyn was also on holiday with Jenna, his parents, 13-year-old daughter Tiffany and nephew Ben when he suffered the life-changing injury.

Mum Valerie, aged 57, from Merrion Drive, Bradeley, said: "I didn't think there would be so many turn out so I am very proud.

"It was a big shock for the family when the accident happened and so devastating for Glyn.

"But he is coming along brilliantly.

"After having his tracheotomy changed he has his voice back and it was lovely to hear him speak again."

Glyn needed emergency surgery after dislocating two bones at the back of his neck as he played with nine-year-old Ben by the pool.

Medics inserted a metal plate in his head before allowing him to be flown home initially to the University Hospital of North Staffordshire.

He now faces months of intensive rehabilitation at the Yorkshire hospital as he learns to adapt to his injuries.

Jenna, who lives with Glyn, added: "I have been touched by the support we have received and how many people out there care.

"As well as raising money I want to raise awareness about how dangerous swimming pools can be for accidents like this."