Isleham-born amputee charity Steel Bones to host tattoo fundraiser

Kevin French has had the Steel Bones logo tattooed on his own foot. (Image: Archant)

Steel Bones is hosting the charity event at Village Ink in Exning, near Newmarket, from 10am on October 29.

Gabby Furze, trustee of Steel Bones, said: “The idea is that people get sponsored or donate to have the design that has been specially drawn for us by Kevin French, owner of Village Ink, who is donating his time and all products towards the event. “100 per cent of the money raised will go to Steel Bones.

Owen Pick's tattoo (Image: Archant)

“The idea came about whilst I was chatting to Kevin whilst he was tattooing me.

“We were discussing Steel Bones and a way of getting our message out there.

Wayne Harrod (Image: Archant)

“Kevin suggested a simple tattoo that would be designed to make people wonder what it was and have to ask about it.”

“We advise anyone wishing to join up let us know in advance so we can give them a time slot.”

Snowboarding medallist Own Pick has had the tattoo already, and the charity’s trustee Wayne Harrod has agreed to be the first person tattooed on the day.

There will also be a transfer of the tattoo design available for children on the day.

Steel Bones’ aim is to connect the amputee community by giving news on a healthy and active lifestyle, signposting useful services, therapists, personal trainers, sports clubs and providing flexible career opportunities.

The idea began after Gabby and her eldest child Jorja, an amputee from birth, met by chance with Emma Joy-Staines and her husband Leigh, an amputee, with their family.

“Her children had never met another amputee before,” she said.

“We got chatting and both agreed there is no support for amputees and their families. This made us feel isolated as a family and we all agreed that there must be others who felt the same.

“Emma and her husband came up with the idea of the charity after Jorja said it would be nice to see more amputees having fun with their families.”

For more information visit www.steelbone.co.uk or email gabby@steelbone.co.uk or call 07738 466343 to book.

Before the tattoo fundraiser, on Saturday October 28, there will be a Halloween Spooktacular Family Disco in aid of Steel Bones and Isleham School Pool Association. It will run from 7pm until 11pm at The Beeches in Isleham.

There will be a fancy dress competition for all ages and food and drink available. Admission costs £4.50 for adults, £2.50 for children and under threes receive free entry.