Fundraiser for Kettering child who had leg amputated receives cash boost

Three-year-old Luke Lester fell ill before Christmas and an infection resulted in half of his right leg and his left toes being amputated.

A fundraiser, Love4Luke, has been organised for Saturday, March 12, at Burton Park Wanderers Football Club in Burton Latimer.

Taylor Wimpey East Midlands has donated £100 and a raffle prize to the football club to support the event, which has been set up to help Luke and his family.

Kirsty Ward, chairman of the fundraising committee at Burton Park Wanderers, said: “On December 23 Luke was taken to hospital after falling ill, and when we heard about what happened we wanted to show our support.

“Luke’s mum and dad, Clare and Anthony, are strong supporters of Burton Park Wanderers FC and often help out at our fundraising events, so we wanted to give something back.

“We’ve organised the Love4Luke fundraiser to help him on his road to recovery, as now that he’s home he has a long road ahead of him and it’s been a massive shock to the family.

“As he’s still growing Luke will have his own personal battles as he grows up and we are doing our best to give him a good starting point.

“While we’re not clear about the next step, the money we raise will help with Luke’s rehabilitation.

Miss Ward is hoping to raise about £2,500 from the event.

She added: “On the night we will have a disco and fancy dress, plus Taylor Wimpey has donated a chocolate basket as one of the prizes in our raffle.

“We’ve received a lot of generosity from people in the local area – we’ve been able to print our raffle tickets at a discounted price, we’ve had the food donated and the DJ is doing the disco free of charge, which means the fundraiser hasn’t cost the club a great deal so we can raise even more for Luke.

“It’s all been really overwhelming for Luke’s family and they’re grateful for our help.

“In the summer, if Luke’s well enough, we’re also hoping to decorate the club house and have a belated Christmas for him, as he missed out on it while he was in hospital.

“It must be really difficult for Clare and Anthony, so as a parent myself I want to help and I’d like to thank Taylor Wimpey for their support.”

Lucie Grundy, sales manager for Taylor Wimpey East Midlands, said: “When we heard about Luke we didn’t hesitate to offer our help to the Burton Park Wanderers and their Love4Luke event – we’re very pleased to donate to such a wonderful cause.

“We wish Kirsty and the club the best of luck with the fundraiser and hope everyone has a great time.”