A FUNDRAISING target of £25,000 to help a young Newport cricketer back to the crease looks set to be met at a charity today.

Tom Carter, 20, had his left leg amputated last year following the discovery of bone cancer after initially complaining of a pain in his knee.

Mr Carter, from Bassaleg, has undergone chemotherapy and is getting regular physiotherapy to help him walk using prosthetic limb. But the young sportsman needs a specially designed dynamic prosthetic limb to get back playing for his team, Newport Cricket Club.

The high-tech limb, which costs £25,000, will include a microprocessor in the knee to allow the extra flexibility needed for batting. Various fundraising events have so far raised around £18,000 towards the overall target.

The latest fundraiser, a lunch and auction event, is being organised by Auction House (South East Wales) with the support of Acorn Recruitment, local property developer James Bewley, Mike Powell of Thomas Carroll, and Glamorgan Cricket Club, at the Swalec Stadium today.

The event is expected to raise in excess of £10,000, making Mr Carter’s dream of returning to play cricket a step closer.

Mr Carter, who finished his chemotherapy around five weeks ago, said: “It’s nice to know that people have pulled together and are helping out. It’s so heartwarming.

“I’ve always hoped and believed that I’d play cricket again. It’s a big part of my life and to play again would be great.”

And now, businesses across South Wales are being urged by taking part in a charity golf day led by Sir Ian Botham to raise even more funds.

England Test hero and prolific fundraiser Sir Ian is supporting four-ball golf day in August on the Celtic Manor’s 2010 Ryder Cup course. The Celtic Manor has also donated accommodation and dinner for the successful bidders.

Mr Carter added: “Ian Botham is like a hero, he’s a legend. I’ve always wanted to meet him and I can’t believe he is helping out.”

Mick Haywood, of Auction House, said: “We are delighted that Sir Ian has agreed to support the fundraising efforts for Tom.

“His performances for England are legendary, as are his efforts to raise funds for charity, and he is very keen to back our effort to get Tom playing cricket again.

“Playing golf with Sir Ian Botham is an once-in-a-lifetime experience, and we think it’s worth breaking the bank for. So we’d love to hear from any business owners who want to bid for the chance to challenge one of the country’s best-ever sportsmen.”

For more details email mick.haywood@auctionhouse.uk.net.