Family and friends get together for fundraiser in support of Barney

THE family of a man being treated in hospital for head injuries are overwhelmed with the support they have received.
Family and close friends show their support for Barney Butwell at The Fort Cumberland ArmsFamily and close friends show their support for Barney Butwell at The Fort Cumberland Arms
Family and close friends show their support for Barney Butwell at The Fort Cumberland Arms

It comes as the Fort Cumberland Arms, in Eastney, held a fundraiser for Barney Butwell.

The 25-year-old, from Milton, is being treated at Southampton General Hospital after an incident on April 2 which left Barney fighting for his life.

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He was left in a coma but has shown signs of improvement in recent weeks.

Barney’s aunt Karen McInnes went to the pub fundraiser on Saturday which had a barbecue, bouncy castle, live music and games to raise cash.

She said: ‘It’s wonderful of the pub to hold the fundraiser.

‘It’s an inspiration for us as a family. The whole family has been encouraged by people’s support.

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‘It has been nice for the pub to support us and great to come somewhere where people are thinking about Barney and the situation he’s in.’

In total, the day raised £952, including £105 for a signed Pompey shirt. Ladbrokes donated a £30 betting voucher, which will be given to Barney.

Landlord Colin Nash said they wanted to help when they heard about Barney’s condition. As well as holding the raffle and the barbecue to raise money, 10 per cent of the 
bar takings was donated.

Colin said: ‘We are a community pub and Barney used to come in here to play pool with his friends.

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‘He is a local lad with family from around this way and we wanted to help.

‘It was a good event and we had people in from around midday so hopefully we have raised some money for him.’

It is hoped Barney will be moved to Queen Alexandra Hospital in Cosham over the next few days and Karen added his recovery is going better than expected.

‘He recently had an operation to replace part of his skull but it is the last one he will face,’ she said.

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‘His recovery will be about physiotherapy now. Barney’s left side is very slow in moving but he has got feeling and it is improving daily.

‘Everyday we are shocked at how brave and positive he is about the situation.’

So far, more than £5,000 has been raised for Barney and his family.

Karen added: ‘We want to thank everyone who has been so kind to us and shown their support for Barney.’

n A 21-year-old woman was arrested on suspicion of attempted murder following an incident at a house in Timpson Road, Portsmouth. She has been bailed until June 22.