Ball to boost the group that aided veteran in blast

Gemma Cook and Rebecca Robinson are organising a summer ball on Armed forces Day in aid of Help for Heroes after Rebecca's partner James Wilkinson was injured in a blast while serving in Afghanistan. 5th April 2016. 161501c Picture: Ceri Oakes

The organisers of the event want to give something back to Help For Heroes as a thanks for all the support they have received.

James Wilkinson served for the Royal Army Veterinary Corps as a dog handler.

In 2011, on his third tour to Afghanistan, James was caught in an improvised explosive device blast and suffered life-changing injuries.

James Wilkinson serving at Camp Bastion, Afghanistan in 2009 (left) and in Birmingham Hospital after being injured in a blast (right). Gemma Cook and James' partner Rebecca Robinson are organising a summer ball on Armed forces Day in aid of Help for Heroes. 5th April 2016. 161501d Picture: Ceri Oakes

His injuries subjected him to a gruelling three years rehabilitation programmeat the Help for Heroes rehab complex at Headley Court in Surrey.

James inevitably retired from the army but suffers daily with the after effects of the injury he received while serving for his country.

His partner, Rebecca Robinson came up with the idea of a black tie summer ball to coincide with Armed Forces Day.

With the help of friend Gemma Cook they have took on the huge task of organising the fundraiser which will be held at The Royal Hotel, St Nicholas Street on Saturday June 25.

The pair are hoping to raise between £5,000 and £7,000 including ticket sales, sponsorship and the auction.

Rebecca said: “Scarborough have always been really good when it comes to Armed Forces Day so we thought we could tie something in with it.”

They are now calling for businesses to donate prizes for the charity auction which they have high hopes will be a success.

Rebecca added: “The big money raising thing is the charity auction where people can bid on the prizes.

“Hopefully people will be generous on the night. We already have a flight in a microlight, a meat hamper, hopefully a weekend away in a holiday cottage.”

Other auction prizes include a one day photography course for three people, a framed night photo by Nigel Hall, one week large skip hire from Murray Brown and a two hour one-to-one training session.

Organisers are also looking for companies to sponsor tables to help boost the event.

Rebecca says the black-tie event is a great opportunity to get dressed up and bring along friends and family for a great night out while also raising money for this important charity.

Ticket sales at £45 are expected to be very popular.

If anyone would like to donate a raffle or auction prize contact Rebecca Robinson on 07445253691 or Gemma Cook on 07870811315 or email [email protected]