MONEY is still pouring in to boost the appeal for stricken speedway star Lol Hare and fundraising events are certainly not drying up.Chicago Rock Café in Northgate Street, Ipswich is hosting a party with a DJ and a two-course meal, all in the aid of Lol Hare on August 4.

MONEY is still pouring in to boost the appeal for stricken speedway star Lol Hare and fundraising events are certainly not drying up.

Chicago Rock Café in Northgate Street, Ipswich is hosting a party with a DJ and a two-course meal, all in the aid of Lol Hare on August 4.

The event which is being sponsored by IT company KeConnect is in association with the Lol Hare Appeal which is run by his aunt Lynn Dennis and former speedway promoter Mike Western, in association with the Evening Star.

Tens of thousands of pounds are being raised throughout the country following the Ipswich-based speedway rider's horrific accident which left him paralysed with serious spinal injuries.

His fighting spirit has touched the hearts of friends and strangers alike, many of whom are raising money to help him when he comes out of hospital.

Speaking today from Stoke Mandeville Hospital where he was transferred last week from Cardiff, Lol told the Evening Star: "I am really thrilled with the way everyone is supporting me.

"I may have times when I am alone here in hospital and I think and worry about what the future holds but I am optimistic most of the time and when I see and hear of the support among my friends and family, then I know things will be all right. All I can say is thank-you everyone," he added.

The team behind the Chicago's event is John Moody, Tanya Wright, Karl Harris and Kerry Garnham.

As staff of the Swallow Leisure Club at Belstead Brook, of which Lol was a member and a regular visitor, they knew him well.

They are hoping for a large turnout on the night and have 500 tickets available.

Robert Kemp managing director of KeConnect said, "I felt it was staggering what happened to that young man" he added that through this "KeConnect could put something back in".

Other companies have also got behind the cause by donating prizes for the raffle. So far prizes have come from Swallow Belstead Brook Hotel, Fitness First, Next Generation, Spirit Health Club, Martlesham Leisure, Hi-Life, Ufford Park, John Oliver Hairdressers, Toni and Guy, Adam and Eve Hairdressers, The Galley restaurant, Fynn Valley Golf Club, the Royal George and Top Banana restaurant.

Lol moved to Stoke Mandeville last Wednesday, and his aunt, Mrs Dennis said: "The move has been daunting for him after spending two months in a hospital room, but a big boost too.

"He met Jimmy Saville, who does a lot of fundraising for the hospital and has met patients the same age and younger than himself. One man had a lightweight wheelchair and Lol wants a similar one."

She added that his dexterity had improved so much he was busy text-messaging friends on his mobile phone.

He also enjoyed a trip to Cardiff Millennium Stadium to see the speedway Grand Prix with fellow riders, and had a fabulous time.

The fund for Lol has now reached £62,000, and his family aim to raise £100,000 for his future.

The event starts at 7pm and the bar is open until midnight. Tickets cost £5 including a raffle ticket for the chance to win a prize on the night.

They are available from the Swallow Leisure Club on 01473 684241 ext 696.

Donations payable to the Evening Star Lol Hare Appeal can be sent to Geraldine Thompson, Editor's Secretary, Evening Star, 30 Lower Brook Street, Ipswich IP4 1AN.

Enjoy a night out and raise money for Lol - buy tickets here