Sevens tournament a 'fantastic success'

Photo: Tim Bradley

A MINUTE'S silence is observed at Manor Park for the victims of the Manchester Arena atrocity.

A SPECIAL rugby fun day to raise money for the We Love Manchester Emergency Fund was hailed a "fantastic success".

The tough rugby sevens tournament, staged at Oldham Rugby Union Club's Manor Park ground, featured familiar faces from both league and union.

The day also featured stalls, live bands and a balloon release.

Teams from Oldham, Bury, Didsbury and Orrell were joined by Oldham nurses, paramedics and Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service.

The Chronicle-backed event was launched with a minute's silence for the victims and families affected by the Manchester atrocity on May 22.

So far the event has raised more than £3,000 ­- with money still coming in.

The We Love Manchester Emergency Fund was set up by the British Red Cross in the aftermath of the blast at the Manchester Arena.

Organiser Stuart Brennan, of Oldham RUFC, said: "It was a fantastic success and I have never been prouder of my club, especially the truly amazing group of people I have been working with to make it possible.

"I would like to thank everyone who turned up to play rugby, all the amazing people who gave up their time and efforts to have some fantastic stalls, all the bands and of course everyone who came down to watch and support the day."

Oldham-born rugby league stars Kevin Sinfield and Barrie McDermott were part of the winning Oldham Celebrity team, captained by Gareth Barber. They beat Orrell RUFC in the final. Royton Tigers, captained by John Gillam, overcame an Oldham firsts in the Plate final.

The trophies were presented by Steve Blackburn, president Lancashire RFU. The event was also attended by Medlock Vale councillor Kaiser Rehman.

Oldham RUFC Celebrity team: Gareth Barber (c), Kevin Sinfield, Barrie McDermott, Ian Sinfield, Billy McDermott, Callum Megram, Alec Jobson, Jensen Hamilton, Becky Hughes, Darryl Rogers, and Chris Black.

St Thomas' Brass Band performed a selection of tunes to accompany the players' efforts.

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