A SWANSEA Valley rugby club is rallying around an ex-player to raise enough funds for him to continue a flourishing career in tennis.

Ystradgynlais winger Lyn Kipper' Thomas' career was brought to an abrupt end in the early 90s when he was confined to a wheelchair after a mining accident.

But since then Thomas has taken up tennis and reached the final of the Welsh Open late last year.

He is currently borrowing a chair after being told that a made-to-measure model will cost an extra £1,000.

Another two tournaments have been pencilled into the diary in Taunton and Glasgow in April, and it is hoped that the new chair, which would not be funded by the government, will be in place by then.

"I've ordered the chair already and we're hoping that the extra £1,000 needed will be raised over the next few months," said Lyn.

Ystradgynlais RFC have organised a 70s fancy dress night at the club on April 7 while the Gough Arms pub in the village is also organising an auction and quiz night.

Around 120 sports teams and businesses have been contacted to help out, but the Swansea Valley side have insisted that they will do all they can to help out Thomas, who remains a popular member of the club.

Press officer Huw Thomas said: "Lyn is one of Ystradgynlais' most colourful characters.

"He is a popular member of our club and a great supporter of the Blues.

"As a club we feel it is our duty to help out one of our own- a man who I can say hand on heart is the best winger I have ever seen in Ystradgynlais colours."

Tickets for the disco can be bought from Ystradgynlais RFC for £3 and if anyone would like to donate any money to the fund or gifts to auction email lynthomas1@btinternet.com.