JACK RUSSELL may be suffering from a persistent back injury that is currently sidelining the former England gloveman, but it is full steam ahead as his testimonial season gathers pace.

The Stroud-born wicketkeeper and Gloucestershire legend has been sidelined for more than a month and is currently putting himself through some intensive acupuncture treatment.

But Russell, now aged 40, has been busy finalising his testimonial plans as he reaches his 23rd year at the club.

The planned events include the Ian Botham Classic Golf Tournament on July 5. This event will feature cricket legends Ian Botham and Angus Fraser and former England football star Russell Osman, who will all be matching their strokes against Russell.

Other events scheduled for the testimonial include a Twenty20 cricket match at Cheltenham College on July 26 between a Jack Russell XI and a Gloucestershire XI.

Russell's side is set to feature Devon Malcolm, Robin Smith, Darren Gough, Andy Caddick, Robert Croft, Bill Athey, Gladstone Small, Graeme Hick, David Capel and Ronnie Irani among others.

For further information on the golf day call Martin Gerrard on 07919 024959. For more information on the other testimonial events, call 07751 042914.