Play a part in Mark's bid for a gold medal (From Barry And District News)

Play a part in Mark's bid for a gold medal

A YOUNG Barry sportsman has won nearly fifty medals, but needs help to finance his next assault on the world of sport.

Mark Eveleigh is 18 and goes to Ysgol Maes Dyfan, and has won so many decorations he's running out of places to show them. But now he is facing the chance of representing his country in the Special Olympics World Winter games in Japan, February 2005, he has to find the funding - or he can't go.

As a young child, Mark had encephalitis - a form of meningitis, which left him with learning difficulties. He also has to cope with asthma and epilepsy, kept under control with medication.

The Norwood Crescent resident said: "Through the school I have had the opportunity to take part in so many events, and I have won 48 medals.

"I'll always be grateful to the people who give their time to help and coach me. I would not have been able to achieve what I have done without the guidance I was given."

He has been chosen to represent Great Britain at the Special Olympics World Winter games in Nagano, Japan, but needs financial help to go.

Mark is a member of the Vale Ski Dragons team, represented them at the world championship. He is also a member of an athletics club, swimming club and has won gold and silver medals for a host of different sports.

A triple gold medallist skier at the Special Olympics GB National Winter Games in Glasgow, he added: "I am honoured to be chosen for the team, and will do my best to bring back a gold medal for Great Britain.

"I am looking for donations to help me raise the £3,500 it will cost. I need to go to training sessions in Glasgow and Austria and also to get to Japan. Any money raised will also help to pay for the skiing equipment."

For further information or to sponsor Mark, contact his parents on 01446 404024, or Vale Plus Dragon's ski team on 01446 746691.

Donations can be sent direct to Mark at Lloyd's Bank, Account Name: Mark Eveleigh Special Olympics Fund at Account No: 1137174 Sort Code: 30-90-52.

Donations can also be sent to 53 Norwood Crescent, Barry, Vale of Glamorgan, CF63 2AR.