NICK PACKHAM, a former club cricketer who was rendered wheelchair-bound after injuries suffered in a car accident last year, is £2,000 better off thanks to the endeavours of the international stars from the Lashings World XI.

The money was raised during a game held in Packham's benefit at Hunton, near Maidstone, where some of the biggest names in cricket turned out in support of 31-year-old Packham who had been a Hunton player for eight years until his accident in April, 2002.

Phil Tufnell and Sir Viv Richards were among those with Packham when the cheque was handed over to him at The Mote ground during the tea interval of Lashings' game against Eton Ramblers.

Packham, who began his cricket career with Boughton Monchelsea as a 13-year-old, was overwhelmed by the gesture. He said: "I would just like to thank Lashings for what they have done.

“It was an absolutely brilliant day at Hunton and everyone had a great time. Some of the money raised for me will go towards a new 'three wheeled wheelchair' which will enable me to get around better. I am also getting my own car next month so I am hoping to get to more of Hunton's games.

"It was great to meet the likes of Phil Tufnell and Viv Richards who said a few nice words. They were all tremendous towards me."

Packham was forced to watch his former colleagues being put to the sword somewhat during the Hunton game with Grant Flower making 81, Junior Murray 73, Mark Waugh 40 and Chris Harris 101 in a Lashings total of 330 for five made in just 35 overs. Hunton responded with 236 all out David Niblett making 55.