CHSF is honoured to announce legendary cricket umpire and commentator Dickie Bird OBE as their new charity ambassador. What’s more, Dickie has donated £30,000 of his own money to the fund.
CHSF’s CEO Sharon Coyle said:
“We’re beyond thrilled that Dickie Bird – a true Yorkshireman and sporting icon – is becoming our ambassador. Dickie visited the children’s cardiac ward, and his heartfelt engagement with young patients and their families was inspiring to see – it gave them a huge boost.”
“His generous donation, and influence in our region as ambassador, will be felt by generations to come in our continued mission to support hearts for life.”
A press call took place on Thursday, November 16th on the children’s cardiac ward at Leeds General Infirmary where Dickie met patients and staff.
Dickie Bird adds:
“To see these youngsters and babies it’s given me a lump in my throat and a tear in my eye.”
“I’m delighted to help Children’s Heart Surgery Fund and the Leeds Congenital Heart Unit with my donation, and feel privileged to become their ambassador.”
CHSF supports patients born with heart disease and their families throughout Yorkshire by funding the ground-breaking work of the Leeds Congenital Heart Unit. The charity is wholly self-funded by donations from local supporters who help fund life-saving equipment, accommodation for visiting parents, clinical research, ward facilities and key staffing positions.
As an umpire, Dickie was known for adding to the enjoyment of the spectators without ever detracting from the cricket. Since retiring, he has become a media personality, appearing on numerous TV shows and penning the best-selling sports book of all time – My Autobiography. His latest role as charity ambassador, promises to be a very worthwhile partnership for both Dickie and CHSF – itself a celebrated regional institution due to celebrate 30 years as a charity in 2018.
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