Join 'grans' army' for injured troops

By nhorner

A KIND-HEARTED granny from Streetly enjoyed a major success when she visited a military hospital and handed over funds she raised from a sponsored run.

Gill Parkes, from Lilac Avenue, visited Selly Oak Hospital's military wing last Friday and gave a cheque for £391 to Major Ian Cheesman to help injured troops who have returned from Iraq and Afghanistan.

Last month Gill, aged 66, ran the perimeter of Aldridge School's sports field, after her daughter Amanda and friend Bob Lloyd bet that she would never make it round.

After an initial pledge of £5, Gill's sponsorship money soon poured in and she aimed to buy items like razors, chocolate and flip-flops.

But when she visited the hospital and spoke to Maj Cheesman, Officer Commanding Patient Support Services, she discovered the troops had some basic items, including free TV, but her money would help to pay for trips, DVDs and electrical goods to aid their recovery.

"Some patients arrive at the hospital without anything," she said. "Contrary to what I thought they are given chocolate, newspapers and magazines free.

"But the money I raised will help them in the first couple of days. It enables them to go to the pub with military personnel for a pie and a pint, and also go out to events like Top Gear.

"Major Cheesman wanted to thank Nick Heath, who ran with me, and those who made donations. He said the money will be well spent in the MOD patient welfare fund."

Gill was keen to rouse other grannies into action to raise money for the troops.

"I want others to join a Grannies' Land Army," she said. "So grannies, where are you? Don't tell me I am the only granny in this country with a voice. I am doing this for my grandchildren Charlotte, Madison and Ethan, so their future is a safe one without the fear of terrorism. I want others to do the same."

Gill was thrilled that she had made a difference and said: "For a bet that started in a playground I have had such a lovely time."

She said she would be writing to the troops as she was not allowed to visit the ward. "I wanted to tell the troops you are fighting for my grandson Ethan and his cousin Harry, so they can go for a pint down the pub without the fear of being blown up."