Sudbury Hockey Club president Tim Blackburn receives helping hand from community to achieve Masters World Cup dream

Supporters of a Suffolk hockey stalwart have spoken of their pride at his selection to represent his country on the world stage, after raising funds to help get him on the plane.

Sudbury Hockey Club president Tim Blackburn is set to depart for New Zealand this weekend to compete at the 2024 Masters Hockey World Cup, as part of the England Men’s Over-60s team.

The Long Melford resident hopes to emulate his success from two years ago, when he won the World Cup in South Africa as a member of the Over-55s team.

However, as with all masters hockey participants, making the trip to the tournament is entirely self-funded, with each competitor required to pay for their own travel and accommodation.

To help make this a reality, friends of Mr Blackburn have been holding various events to raise funds to cover these costs.

These included a quiz night at Sudbury Hockey Club and a Cavendish Sports Day – organised by Cavendish Cricket Club, where Mr Blackburn is also chairman.

Martin Johnson, a long-time friend and teammate at Cavendish, said the community really wanted to repay Mr Blackburn for his generosity over many years.

“He is an incredibly selfless guy and has been a mate of mine for many years,” Mr Johnson said.

“It was suggested that we look at doing something for Tim, because he does so much for other people.

“The money we raise is to get him part of the way there, so he can represent his country. The financial burden is something we wanted to help with.

“We’re very proud that one of our best mates has been selected to represent England. He’s very proud of it, too, but also a very humble guy.

“I’ve known Tim for a long time and I’m proud to call him a mate. When you have a mate of yours who is committed enough and skilled enough to represent his country, that’s absolutely massive.

“Before the sports day, we had raised somewhere between £1,200 and £1,500, which gives you an idea of the esteem that Tim is held in.

“He also does a lot of coaching and does lots of things free of charge, so that’s why to wanted to help him out.”

Mr Blackburn is due to set off for New Zealand this weekend, with the tournament beginning in early November.