IRISH rugby star Jared Payne has been helped back from injury by staff and volunteers at the Berkshire MS Therapy Centre.
Recovering from a bruised foot the outside centre was welcomed by the team at the charity hub to use their specialist oxygen chamber as part of his recovery.
The seven-seater steel enclosure drops the surrounding air pressure while patients breathe in an oxygen-heavy gas mixture through masks to help relieve fatigue and speed up the body's ability to repair itself.
After missing out on Ireland's Rugby World Cup clash against Italy last weekend the New Zealand-born player hopes to be back in action against France this Sunday [11].
As a way to pay something back Jared has donated a signed team shirt to the West Reading-based charity to be auctioned off.
Samantha Harper, fundraising manager, said: "We prioritise our MS members but if there is space we always try to accommodate others in our oxygen chamber.
"A lot of people find it does help with their energy levels and if you are recovering from an operation, or in this case a sports injury, it helps speed up recovery.
"It caused quite a stir having Jared here and he was very charming as our members rushed to have photos with him.
"We are thrilled we were able to help and wish him – and Ireland – the best for the rest of the World Cup."
To bid on the shirt, signed by the whole Irish Rugby World Cup squad, see www.bmstc.org/Events/Ireland.aspx