It's been a whirlwind few days for 'Blind Dave' Heeley, the inspirational ambassador for The Albion Foundation.
Dave was awarded an OBE in the Queen's Birthday Honours list for his services to charitable fundraising and he sat down with Foundation Director, Rob Lake, to discuss the achievement and look back at his incredible CV of fund-raising efforts for the charity.
“When I found out there were a few tears,” explained Dave.
“The challenges I’ve been a part of, I’ve done them because I’ve wanted to do them, I enjoy them and I support the Foundation so it all pulls together.
“It’s the ultimate thank you from the country isn’t it? And it’s absolutely brilliant,” Dave said.
And Dave was as humble as ever as he thanked everyone that has helped him along the way.
“I’ve had great family and friend support and all of my guides have been incredible – to name them all I’d be here forever!” Dave said.
“Blind Dave OBE is the name that will follow, but truly, it’s ‘Team Blind Dave OBE’,” he said.
“For me, without the lads and the lasses that have helped me, that OBE wouldn’t follow my name.
“They have given me time and they have all given me the opportunities, you can’t say fairer than that.
“So, Team Blind Dave OBE, it’s got a fantastic ring to it,” Dave concluded.
You can watch the full conversation between the pair by clicking the video above.
Dave’s next jaw-dropping challenge will be cycling 800 miles in seven days from Colditz, the prisoner of war castle in Germany all the way back to The Hawthorns in April 2021.
Congratulations Dave, from everyone at West Bromwich Albion and The Albion Foundation!