Mandip backs Leamington’s Rugby4Heroes charity festival

Wheelchair rugby player Mandip Sehmi, who took part in last year’s Paralympics in London, takes on the role alongside existing patron Monty Halls,

The festival takes place every summer at the Old Leamingtonians rugby ground in Kenilworth Road and raises funds to support armed forces personnel.

Mandip, who suffered a spinal cord injury in a road accident 13 years ago , said: “I was introduced to Rugby4Heroes by its founder Mike Vallance. After an entertaining evening at last year’s ball, I realised that this was a great cause and I wanted to help out in anyway I could.

“I am honoured to become a patron and I am so grateful for the men and women in our armed forces, who keep us safe in Great Britain.”

Festival co-organiser Gaz Nash said: “We are delighted and privileged that Mandip has become patron of Old Leamingtonians RFC Rugby4Heroes. He has been a great supporter of Rugby4Heroes over the last 12 months, promoting us and being a festival ambassador. We look forward to welcoming him and his teammates to the ball on Saturday.”

The second annual Rugby4Heroes charity ball takes place tomorrow (Saturday) at the Warwickshire Golf Club. To find out more, visit www.rugbyforheroes.org