AN impressive £5,000 has been raised at a special fundraising event for Aortic Dissection (AD).

The event, which was organised by Weston-based Paul Hobbs, took place on July 25 at Ashton Gate Stadium in an effort to raise money for The Aortic Dissection Charitable Trust.

The organisation's website reads: "Aortic dissection is caused by a partial tear in the wall of the aorta. This tear then spreads along the length of the aorta.

"This can rupture or interrupt the blood supply to vital organs."

Paul was joined by BBC Broadcaster Whispering Bob Harris and former Spurs star Steve Perryman at the stadium, which saw ambassadors for the disease and residents walk 5K.

Weston Mercury: The event was a success.The event was a success. (Image: Paul Hobbs)

Bristol City legends Geoff Merrick, Trevor Tainton, David Rogers, Trevor Tainton, Paul Cheesley, Tom Ritchie, Gerry Sweeney and Andy Tilson also participated.

Bristol Bears Tom Tainton, Katie Griffin, Daisie Mayes, Holly Philips Zoe Slater, Sally Knight and several others, including the former city mayor George Ferguson, attended to show their support.

Gary Mabbutt, former Spurs and England football legend made a rare return to his native Bristol specially for the event.

Deputy lord mayor Cllr Paula O' Rourke addressed all participants and city mayor Marvin Rees' recorded message was played prior to the event.

The event was compered by Nigel Turner, formerly of ITV Westcountry and BBC TV and radio.

Popular Westcountry singer and comedian Micky John Bull entertained throughout.

Sponsors of the event included:

  • Burston & Cook.
  • CJ Hole. 
  • BBS.
  • West End Investments.
  • Cheddar Water.
  • Gary Horne Photography.
  • Cheddar Water.
  • Nigel Turner Productions.
  • Bristol Hotel.

Paul Hobbs, who is on his 29th year of charity fundraising, has raised over a million pounds for the disease in that time. In 2022, Paul received the British Heart Foundation Innovation Fundraiser of the Year Award in London and the Weston Council Borough Shield Award.

Weston Mercury: All proceeds will go towards the charity.All proceeds will go towards the charity. (Image: Paul Hobbs)

He said: "It was a great event and has sent out a strong message regarding a deadly condition not enough people know about and awareness is essential and money desperately needed for medical research, education and victim family support.

"My thanks to everyone who have sponsored, supported, donated, participated and helped the event be a great success.

"Myself and the charity greatly appreciate and thank everyone who supported this event.

"The Aortic Dissection Charitable Trust is a great new charity early into its journey and hopefully this is a step on the way."