Flintoff joined 29 other cyclists last week, including Tom‟s father Matthew and other former county cricketers, in riding from the Swalec Stadium in Cardiff to the Kia Oval in London to raise funds for the Trust, which was established in the name of Tom Maynard, who died tragically on 18th June. The cycle ride has thus far raised in excess of £30,000. Donations can still be made by visiting http://www.tommaynardtrust.com/.
The Tom Maynard Trust exists to help the development of aspiring disadvantaged cricketers and other sportspeople who require support with different aspects of their career development, including bursaries, help with training and education, financial support for overseas placements and assistance with kit and equipment.
Flintoff said: “I am honoured to have been asked to support the Trust and delighted to be able to help in my own small way. The cycle ride was a great example of people coming together to work for a fantastic cause and I look forward to being able to support Matthew and the Trust in many different ways in the future. It‟s a privilege to be involved.”
A spokesperson confirmed that further Patron appointments would be made in due course as the profile of the Trust grew and its work developed. Prior to the Surrey/Glamorgan match at the Kia Oval on 21st August, Matthew Maynard presented cheques for £2,000 to David Lloyd (Glamorgan), Matt Dunn and George Edwards (Surrey) who will be the first three beneficiaries of the Trust. The money will enable them to develop their cricketing education by playing and coaching overseas this winter. The players were nominated by the cricket management at their respective counties.
Surrey‟s Director of Cricket Chris Adams said: “Matt and George are really grateful to the Tom Maynard Trust for giving them this opportunity to go away and develop themselves, both as cricketers and as individuals, and I know the same applies in David‟s case as well. Tom was such a vibrant part of this club, and so sorely missed by everyone, but we‟re delighted that his name is living on and that such positive work is being done to help emerging cricketers.”
The five Trustees are Martyn Ryan, Richard Thompson, Mike Fatkin, Jason Ratcliffe and Matthew Maynard.
Details of further events will be announced in due course. Plans are already advanced for a cycle ride around some of the Test match grounds in the UK in October 2013, proceeds being shared between the PCA Benevolent Fund and the Tom Maynard Trust, with over half of last week‟s riders committing to cycle again. More information can be found on the PCA website: http://www.thepca.co.uk/the-big-village-bike-ride-2013.html
Donations to the Trust can be made by contacting Jon Rees, Carston Accountants, Tudor House, 16 Cathedral Road, Cardiff CF11 9LJ. Cheques should be made payable to „The Tom Maynard Trust‟. For more information on the Trust, visit the website: http://www.tommaynardtrust.com/
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