With the World Cup looming ever nearer, one Gloucestershire resident is showing unprecedented support for his country, whilst raising money for the local hospital's Special Care Baby Unit, by turning his house into a giant St George’s Cross.

Started as a stunt set up by his friend on Facebook, professional painter Ryan O’Dell has seen true the promise to paint a giant red cross on the front of his house “if 50 people join” the Facebook group, seizing the opportunity to raise money for the charity which supported two of his close friends after the birth of their two sons.

Setting up a JustGiving page to accept donations, O’Dell said: “The charity was easily chosen as dear friends of ours have recently raised substantial money for a place close to their hearts, Gloucester Royal Special Baby Care Unit, by riding from Lands End to John O'Groats last year.  Since our last paint job they have needed the support of the unit twice after the birth of their 2 gorgeous sons; sadly their second, Jaime passed away. 

“In memory of Jaime and in our support of them, their son Ollie and their beautiful daughter Jessica (only weeks old) we chose this very worthwhile cause, it is the least we can do.”

The Facebook group has now grown to 442 members and the barmy act has so far raised £840 for the charity, with a fitting target of £1966, in honour of the year England won the World Cup.