A STAR of wheelchair rugby will visit York as part of a special fundraising event in the city.

Jack Brown, wheelchair rugby England captain, will appear at Fulford School on Saturday to help out with a fundraiser.

The event, hosted by wheelchair basketball team York Sharks, is a family fun day to raise funds for the club, which has been running for about four years.

Emma Sheldon, from Naburn, has been club chair for just over two years, and said she took to the sport after suffering mobility issues following an injury 20 years ago. She is not a permanent wheelchair user, but said the sport is open to anyone interested, whether they have mobility problems or not.

She said: “I spent a long time hiding away. I didn’t think there was anything in life worth living for, until I found this and realised it could turn my whole life around, and the health, sport and social benefits to be had.

“The social aspects of it, especially for the children who do have disabilities - what we are able to do is bring them in and give them time to practice a skill they are probably quite good at, using their wheelchair, and building their confidence and giving them the opportunity to see life beyond a disability while mixing with people, not just disabled people. It’s a really positive thing, and has had a massive impact on a lot of lives.”

At Saturday’s event there will be a number of stalls, games and fundraising events, including a sponsored basket throw, with everyone welcome to join at attempt to score 5,000 baskets in an hour.

Emma said: “It’s doable, I’m sure that’s going to happen. Anyone who comes along can try and have a go in one of the chairs for a training session and there will be junior friendly games going on. We’re going to try and get as many people involved as possible.

“We’re hoping to raise £1,000 to run our juniors team for the next season. There are about 30 of us altogether, and most play as well as coach. The youngest junior is five, the oldest member is in his mid-sixties, and it’s not just for disabled people. We can find a position for anyone.”

The club meets for training at Fulford School, and anyone interested in finding out more about York Sharks or in taking part in a game or training session, can email yorkwheelchairbasketball@gmail.com or phone Emma on 07702 507925.