Fight goes on for ex-soldier’s family

BEATRIZ AYALA Iraq flight fund up and running ahead of verdict
A DESPERATE appeal for funds to fly out the family of a former paratrooper and security guard facing the death penalty in Iraq has already raised hundreds of pounds.

Danny Fitzsimons (31), a former pupil of Our Lady’s Catholic School, Royton, admitted manslaughter after shooting two of his colleagues in self-defence after a whisky-fuelled brawl in August, 2009.

Paul McGuigan, from Scotland, and Australian Darren Hoare, both lost their lives aged 37.

Danny is being held in Baghdad’s international Green Zone and could face the death penalty when the Iraqi judge delivers his verdict on February 20.

His father Eric Fitzsimons, who played for Oldham Rugby League Club between 1979 and 1981 before going on to coach them, and step-mum Liz Fitzsimons, have always maintained that Danny suffers from Post Traumatic Stress Disorder.

They launched an appeal to raise over £15,000 to get Eric to Iraq along with Danny’s 27-year-old brother Michael, accompanied by suitable security measures.

Mrs Fitzsimons, a PE teacher at Newbridge School, said she is grateful for the donations already received and plans to hold a fund-raising rugby match next month.

She added: “What we are going through is every parent’s worst nightmare but we need to get Eric and Michael out there before the verdict.

“I’ve had lots of phone calls resulting from the appeal and a few donations from people already.

“We are planning to hold a veterans’ rugby match, Rochdale versus Oldham, on February 9 to raise more funds but the venue is still to be announced.”

To make a donation call 07809-571 437.