Old soldier's victory in eye op battle (From Western Telegraph)

Old soldier's victory in eye op battle

Old soldier Alfred Finnigan has won the shortest battle of his long life as he looks forward to the eye operation that should enable him to read again.

As Mr Finnigan celebrated his 106th birthday last Wednesday, he hoped for an early cataract op, instead of having to wait six more months. Within three days, he learned that his wish had come true, when Carmarthenshire NHS Trust sent him an appointment to have the surgery next week.

And the old gentleman says it is 'jolly good' that he may soon be able to read his treasured books again.

Mr Finnigan lives with his niece Kathy Page and her husband Colin at Llanglydwen, near Efailwen. Said Kathy: "This is brilliant news. We wanted the NHS to do the operation as soon as possible, and this is what will now happen.

"The press have been marvellous and have really taken Alfred to their hearts, recognising him for the wonderful old man he is. He has quite enjoyed all the media attention and has been very chirpy, although I think he might sleep for a week when all the fuss dies down!"

After Mr Finnigan's story appeared in the Western Telegraph, he was featured on television and in national and regional newspapers, and, following a story in the 'Manchester Evening News', received two kind offers to pay privately for his operation.

These came from Manchester solicitor David Royden and a scrap metal merchant and former soldier, Bill Howarth, who has made many generous donations to charity.

Said Kathy: "On Friday we made enquiries as to how much the operation would cost privately so we could let Mr Howarth know. Then on Saturday morning, Alfred had an appointment card from the Carmarthenshire NHS Trust to have his operation on Thursday, October 3rd.

"I have thanked Mr Howarth very much for his generosity, and he has assured me that he will use the £1,800 he intended for Alfred's operation to help someone else in need."

A Trust spokesman said: "We are delighted at Carmarthenshire NHS Trust that Mr Finnegan has received his appointment to attend a day clinic for the treament he requires.

"We all wish him well."