Weighty challenge for Allan's fundraising drive

Allan Burbridge knows there's a struggle ahead but he's found all the motivation he needs to keep going when times are hard.

Allan, who is 50 and lives in Putland Crescent, steeled himself for an official weigh-in this week and announced his start weight on 38st 5lb, with a waist measurement of 74in.

He started his diet this week with a modest breakfast of tea and a slice of pineapple and said: "Every time I feel hungry I am going to look at Hayley's face. It brings me to tears seeing her.

"It chokes me up every time I think about her '“ she can't do anything about her condition, but I am this way because of what I've done, I have made myself this way. "I have the choice of doing something.

"But she is so happy and smiley '“ it's unbelievable."

Allan, supported in his sponsored slim by wife Lin, has already started with 100 sponsorship from Danny Winchester in Ore, plus 50 from his step-son Paul Quinnell who works in Stars hairdresser in Western Road.

The aim is to lose 10 stones in six months and Allan is confident that if he just halves the amount he normally eats he will soon be well on the way.

The intention is to appeal to local businesses and shops to sponsor him '“ he is hoping to raise between 5-10,000 which Hayley could then use for her regular trips to Washington to take part in drug trials and be monitored.

Allan has already put himself to the test by giving up smoking so he knows he has the strength to stick with his aim and find enough willpower to get through.

"The main reason I am doing this is that I can sit here and feel really sorry for myself because I can't do so much. But then I see Hayley and what she is suffering and I realise I have got no problems.

"Instead of just sitting there I thought I can do something and help Hayley at the same time. That's the aim.

"Hayley is suffering from all that but she is never down '“ she is always laughing and smiling '“ and there's me sat in the chair feeling sorry for myself. I can do something about my problems, but she can't."

Anyone who would like to sponsor Allan can call him on 01424 214937.