Shropshire blind veteran given honour for fundraising £40k
A blind Shropshire veteran has won a national community award after raising more than £40,000 for charity.
Clive Jones, from Market Drayton, lost the sight in both eyes on his birthday whilst serving in the army in 2000.
He has now received a Founder's Day Community Award from Blind Veterans UK for having walked, cycled, curried and quizzed his way to raising tens of thousands.
Clive is also a very active Freemason via his membership of St Mary's Lodge in Market Drayton where he raises yet more funds for charity.
The 41-year-old said it was a devastating experience to lose the sight in both eyes but was helped by support from the Blind Veterans UK.
Clive received his award in St Dunstan's Chapel at the charity's headquarters in Brighton.
He said: "At the time I lost my sight I thought my world and my life had ended – it all seems a distant memory now, but really does underpin the notion that even in extreme adversity life does go on given half a chance.
"I really am truly grateful to everyone who has made a positive difference to my life, particularly my family, blinded comrades, support organisations and many sighted friends, one of whom drove me to Brighton and back so I could receive my award in person."
Clive is already planning more fundraising initiatives.
