Dedicated son continues family fundraising tradition in memory of his father

A local Sandhurst fundraiser is set to push a two tonne helicopter across Kent with a group of friends and family to raise vital funds for the Stroke Association.

Adam Kerry, 44, of Bodiam Road was inspired to take on the challenge for charity after he saw the devastating impact stroke had on his father Tony in 2001.

Following his father’s stroke, Adam decided to continue his father’s fundraising tradition of pulling heavy items around the local village, and has gone on to raise over £22,000 for the Stroke Association.

Adam said: “Growing up, dad was like a celebrity of our village – everyone knew him and wanted to speak to him. He was a kind hearted and very generous man. He taught me about giving back to the community and those who are less fortunate.

“Dad took on different challenges over the years to raise money in fun and quirky ways, but he was mostly known for pulling and pushing heavy items around the village. From pushing a piano to a lorry, my dad went above and beyond with his challenges to help raise vital funds for local charities.”

On Saturday 27August and Sunday 28 August, Adam and his team will pull a jet ranger replica helicopter 24 miles across Kent.

Adam adds: “Two years ago we pulled a boat, last year it was a tractor, and now a helicopter! Everyone has been so supportive in getting involved to help make this challenge a success, I can’t thank them enough. I really wouldn’t be able to do this without my friends and family who are helping on the day. Local businesses are really supportive too, especially the White Dog Inn who are holding a BBQ and fun day to celebrate us getting to the halfway point, and The Swan in Sandhurst who will help us celebrate at the finish.

“We really hope to see as many people from the community on the day, you’ll definitely be able to spot us!”

Becky Beard, Fundraising Manager at the Stroke Association, said: “With around 152,000 strokes a year in the UK – that’s around one every three and a half minutes - it is vital that we have people who can raise funds for those affected by stroke. We’re incredibly grateful to Adam and his team for taking on this challenge; the funds he’s raised will go a long way in helping to support people who are living with the effects of stroke, as well as their families and carers.”

To sponsor Adam, visitwww.virginmoneygiving.com/team/helicopterpush. For more information about stroke, ring the Helpline on 0303 30 33 100 or visit www.stroke.org.uk