Blackburn Rovers players started the ball rolling...and now a school is planning to raise cash for a former pupil who severed his spine in a horrific sledging accident.

Wheelchair-bound Stephen Lightbown, 16, was left paralysed from the waist down after his sledge crashed into a tree near Bold Venture Park, Darwen, in January.

His ex-school, St Peter's Primary in Darwen, is organising a grand raffle to raise money for vital equipment for him.

Teacher Clare Hunter said: "Inevitably Stephen's future is going to be uncertain and he will need support in many ways.

"We at St Peter's have taken on board the task of raising funds which will be used to provide him with some of the equipment which will make his life more comfortable and purposeful.

"We also hope to involve Stephen in our school in other ways when he is fit enough."

Other schools, including Holy Trinity Primary, are also helping to organise July's raffle. The draw will be made at a special disco at Marigold's function room at The Green in Darwen.

The school is also writing to local businesses and sporting clubs asking for donations or prizes.

Stephen, of Sough Road, Darwen, has had intensive treatment at the Southport spinal unit since the accident in which he also broke his ribs and punctured a lung.

His spirits were lifted when he met Blackburn Rovers players Alan Shearer, Shay Given and Tim Flowers after the Ewood clash against Arsenal.

Anybody wishing to help can call the school on 01254 701299.

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