A LOCAL hockey player who was once told he would never play the sport again has been selected to represent England at the Hockey Masters World Cup.

Duncan Edwards, from Lydney, has earned a place in the England Over 45s Masters Squad for the World Cup, which will be held in Rotterdam from Wednesday, July 22 to Saturday, August 1, 2026.

The selection comes 12 years after Mr Edwards underwent spinal surgery and was advised by doctors that his hockey career was over.

Reflecting on his journey, he said: “Coming to terms with that was tough as hockey has always been a huge part of my life. After years of rehab and training I returned to hockey, so to now be selected for the first time to play international hockey feels surreal and really exciting.”

The World Cup will bring together players from across the globe, with competitions held across age categories including Over 35s, Over 40s, Over 45s and Over 50s for both men and women. Matches will be hosted by HC Rotterdam in cooperation with HV Victoria.

While representing his country is a lifelong ambition fulfilled, the tournament is entirely self funded. The total cost of attending is around £4,500, covering flights, accommodation, kit, training fees, transport, catering and loss of earnings.

Mr Edwards has launched a fundraising campaign to raise £2,500 towards the essential costs, at a time when he and his partner are also caring for a six month old baby.

He said: “Being chosen for this squad is a huge achievement and I want to give everything I have to do England proud. Any support, whether through donations or sharing the page, genuinely means the world.”

The fundraiser has already helped cover the cost of his kit, with Mr Edwards describing himself as extremely grateful and overwhelmed by the support so far.