The Richard Engelgardt Trust received cheques for around £9000 at the Birstall RFC President Day on Bank Holiday Sunday.

The annual Birstall Charity game was held in aid of Birstall player Richard Engelgardt - who suffered a spinal injury at the start of the 2009/10 season. A Trust has been set up to help Richard.

Andy Reed President of Birstall Rugby Club said "It is important that we look after Richard and his needs, not just for one or two years but for the rest of his life. That is what the rugby community is like - we rally round. I have ben proud of the reponse of everybody at the club, across the County and in fact all over the country"

The fundraising activities included a 'Beard-off', a Lions fundraising evening with Hatt Hampson, Ventnor RFC donation and the Parliamentary Team making a donation.

More activities are planned throughout the year. A website and news will be launched soon.