Marsham Court Hotel is hosting a fundraising gala for Bournemouth Lions Wheelchair Rugby, with gold medal-winning Paralympian Kylie Grimes MBE as guest of honour.

The hotel, which has won awards for its accessibility, became an official partner of the club last September and has pledged to help raise much-needed funds for new equipment.

Kylie will attend the ticketed gala dinner on Friday 15 November and share her journey as part of Team GB at the 2021 Tokyo Paralympics, where she became the first female in the history of the sport to win gold.

Grace Capaldi, chair of Bournemouth Lions, said: “We’re grateful to Marsham Court for holding what promises to be a hugely entertaining evening in support of our club.

“As well as hearing from the incredibly inspiring athlete Kylie Grimes, attendees will be able learn more about our club, and our adult and ‘cubs’ wheelchair rugby teams, which are growing all the time.

“Plus, there’ll be wonderful food and a band.”

Bournemouth Lions play wheelchair rugby fives (WR5s), which puts five players on court – unlike the Paralympic discipline, which has just four.

WR5s also doesn’t require players to have a disability affecting their arms.

Anyone, whether disabled or able-bodied, can play with Bournemouth Wheelchair Rugby, although only players with a physical disability can play in the league.

Grace continued: “Marsham Court is a welcome sponsor for us because it’s one of the most accessible hotels in the UK.

“We were pleased to welcome the managing director Rosie Radwell and some of her team down to the club this summer to try wheelchair rugby, and they really enjoyed it.

“They were shocked to hear how expensive our equipment, such as replacement wheels for our wheelchairs, can be, and promised to help.

“This gala evening will contribute to those costs.”

Jane Langridge, business development manager at Marsham Court, added: “We’re excited to support the Bournemouth Wheelchair Rugby Team this season and to see our hotel name emblazoned on the Lions’ shirts.

“We’re passionate about accessibility and inclusivity for all, and we’re looking forward to building a strong and lasting connection with the club and its members.”

Tickets to the gala dinner cost £64.95 per person and include a welcome drink, three-course meal, wine and entertainment.

A £10 donation from each ticket sale will go towards the Bournemouth Lions team.

Power Bespoke HQ has signed up as a sponsor for the event and other companies are being sought to support it.

• For more information and to book tickets, get in touch with Ashlie at [email protected]