Campaigning dad gets Team GB's support

Buy photos » Noel Thatcher meets Robert Underwood. (s)

A MATCHBOROUGH man who has helped raise thousands of pounds to install lifesaving heart machines across Redditch enjoyed his own gold medal moment in recognition of his work.

Robert Underwood was one of 25 fundraisers for a variety of charities chosen to enjoy afternoon tea at Team GB House on the Olympic Park in Stratford in London on Wednesday (August 1).

The event was organised as part of the Gold Challenge - a charity challenge which urges to raise as much money as they can for good causes by taking part in Olympic and Paralympic sports.

Mr Underwood was selected for his work in raising money for SADS UK to install defibrillators in as many schools and other public places across Redditch as possible, following the death of his daughter Charlotte Prentice from Sudden Arrhythmic Death Syndrome (SADS).

Mr Underwood also met high jumper Dalton Grant, who signed his back which he will now turn into a permanent tattoo, and runner Noel Thatcher, who represented Great Britain in Six Paralympics and won five gold medals.

"It was an amazing experience, a once in a lifetime thing," Mr Underwood told the Standard.

He also got both athletes to sign various merchandise which will be auctioned or raffled to raise more money for the charity. So far seven defibrillators have been installed across Redditch as a result of the campaign with another six ready to go in.

Visit www.sadsuk.org.uk for more information about the charity or contact Mr Underwood to get involved with any fundraising on 07794 637073.

Visit www.facebook.com/redditchheartsafe for the locations of defibrillators in Redditch.

Regional news »