A WEIGHTLIFTER from Widnes who faced an uncertain future following a brain haemorrhage has qualified for a world championship and needs your help to get there.

It was touch and go for Jon Towell after he fell ill in April, with fears for his life.

But the 46-year-old pulled through and went onto compete in the English Grand Prix in Milton Keynes on November 3 in the Masters 3 (45-49 age category) -89kg bodyweight category and has become English Champion for his age and weight class.

He lifted an 86kg snatch for a personal best and a 115kg clean and jerk for a personal best total of 201kg and a gold medal.

The success means he has also qualified for the British Championships, European Masters Championships and World Masters Championships in 2020.

Jon, who trains at Pride Performance Gym on Old Liverpool Road, Warrington, is coached by Heather Flannery and Andrew Griffiths and brings home the fourth national medal since October for the gym.

Jon said: "On April 10, I had just finished my shift testing TCMS on new rolling stock.

"Very shortly after my shift I suffered a brain haemorrhage.

"An ambulance was called and I spent eight days in Nottingham Neurological unit.

"It was an extremely worrying time for me as my wife and I were informed it was serious.

"My life was in danger.

"Due to my good health and strength, I managed to recover, but was told I may not be able to exercise or train the way I used to.

"Six months later with amazing support from my family, I have made a full recovery and this weekend just gone I was crowned English masters weightlifting champion!

"I have now qualified for the European and World Masters next year where between me and my coach we have targets set on a podium at both.

"I am looking for a sponsor who would like to be involved in my journey from hospital bed to World Championships next year."

If you are interested in sponsoring Jon, get in touch via Contact@pride-performance.co.uk