A rugby player has praised readers of the Wimbledon Times following a string of anonymous donations.

First team captain at Merton Rugby Club and a former Royal Marine Commando, Lee Elliot celebrated a double victory on Friday night at a charity boxing event.

Lee was raising money for mental health charity Mind and won his bout by Technical Knock Out in just over a minute into the first round.

But Lee, who spoke to the Wimbledon Times a few days before the fight about his goal to raise awareness of mental illness amongst ex-service personnel, was also named the event’s most successful fundraiser.

VIEW LEE'S JUSTGIVING PAGE HERE

He put this down to a rise in anonymous donations following his interview.

"It’s been a challenging eight weeks but I’m over the moon to have won my match," Lee said.

"Full credit to the staff at Gym Box, Bank and Alix Farsian from the gym group in Colliers Wood who trained me from scratch and to my opponent who gave his all.

"Whist the victory is something I’ll always savour I’m especially proud to have raised so much for Mind."

"This wouldn’t have been possible without the generosity of Wimbledon Times readers and I’d like to thank everyone who donated.”

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When the Wimbledon Times published its online article on December 4, the amount Lee had raised stood at a little more than £1,100.

But the days following the story provided a much-welcomed boost. The total amount raised now sits at £1,739.

Whilst Lee enjoyed the challenge of learning to box he’s pleased to be returning to his first sporting passion, captaining his rugby club.

"Rugby has been a big part of my life and my wellbeing," he added.

"A big group of the guys were there cheering me on Friday night.

"I’m now looking forwards to leading our push for trophies this season.

"Anyone interested in learning the game should join me for training every Wednesday night at 7.30pm at Morden Recreation Ground.”