Iain Ogston (Oggie) is a very keen fisher, but unlike most of us, he has inoperable second stage cancer and has been told he hasn't got much time left, it could be days or weeks. He's also been confined to a wheelchair for over thirty years after a freak motorbike accident at the age of 22. He hasn't really had a lot of luck in life.

Fishing is Iain's love and passion and what little money gets to live on, has gone partly to fund his pastime. He's so committed to his fly fishing that he'll be the one that's out there in all weathers when the less hardy are sheltering in the hut. Not in fancy insulated waterproofs, he relies on his old oilskins and layers of clothes underneath. He does have a couple of nice rods and reels, but only because he was able to pay these up as he'd never have been able to purchase them outright from any savings.

He's a very independent and proud person who doesn't look for handouts or sympathy. Often he'll struggle round the fishery in his conventional NHS wheelchair, determined to make it to his favourite pegs, and he will accept a wee help from nearby anglers when they offer. He is truly inspirational and I don't think I've ever seen him without a smile on his face, even if he's having a bad day or after losing a good fish. Even lately when he was suffering a lot of pain, he never complained, little did we know how bad his condition really was.

Iain has recently been transferred from hospital and his sister is taking care of him just now. He has been on the phone to a lot of his friends and I can't believe how positive and accepting he's been of his situation. His biggest worry just now is not about dying or how little time he's got left, it's about how he'll fund a decent funeral and send off. He's speaking about selling all his tackle off but that won't raise nearly enough.

I know how generous the fishing community can be when one of their own is in trouble. I also know there is still a lot of good and compassionate people out there, even during these worrying times.

All Iain wants is a dignified funeral, not lavish or extravagant, just one where friends and relatives can come along and pay their respects and celebrate his life.

I'm sure Iain will be grateful for any donations, regardless of the amount, and we will make sure the money is used wisely to allow him this last wish. Meanwhile Iain is taking each day at a time, remaining positive and still smiling.

Thank You