A Royston-based spinal cord charity has been selected for support from one of England's largest chambers after being recommended by one of their barristers.

Rooprai Spinal Trust (RST) was set up after its founder Marrianne Rooprai suffered devastating injuries in a car accident in the summer of 2004, and was paralysed from the shoulders down.

The charity has now been chosen as the charity partner for Exchange Chambers until 2026.

Andy Uttridge, co-founder of the charity and Marrianne's partner, said: "I am delighted that we have been chosen after being shortlisted in the summer.

"We visited Exchange to give a presentation to their charity committee after being recommended to them by one of our supporters. 

"Establishing partnerships like this one are not only financially beneficial, but they also help raise awareness of the work we do with those affected by spinal cord injuries.

"We know first-hand how life can change in a blink of an eye and it’s vital that anyone in this situation knows there is help available."

The first fundraising event organised by Exchange Chambers for RST is a black-tie dinner in Manchester next week, for 300 invited guests.

Marrianne and Andy will talk to the guests and share a video outlining the charity's work.

RST's physio scholarship programme currently supports people to access five specialist centres across the country.

Andy said: "The support from Exchange will not only help us maintain that support but we hope it will help us expand with an additional centre in 2025.

"Exchange have been incredibly friendly and excited to work with us.

"We’ve invited their charity team to one of the centres we work with, The Rehab Physio, to try some of the technology and equipment available and show them how their support can really make a difference."

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Exchange Chambers has a new charity partner every two years.

CEO Jonathan l'Anson said: "As a full-service barristers' chambers, one of our areas of specialism is complex personal injury work.

"Our barristers and staff are very aware of the life-changing impact of spinal cord injury and the need to shine a light on the importance of post paralysis support."