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.

Andy Reed will lead out his President XV rugby side at Birstall again this year on Sunday. This year the funds raised from the charity game will go to the injured player Richard Engelgardt's Trust.

Andy said "This is a long standing commitment. There is no way I could let down Rich and the fund raising we need to do. I am now a Trustee of the Fund we have set up to look after Richard. I am proud to be here and involved.

"As President of the club I am proud of the way this club and the wider rugby community have helped raise funds to look after Richard and his needs after the accident. "

"Last year we won again with the help of two Tuilagi brothers! This year I have kept it so that we have a closer game!! But I am still expecting my team to play some attractive rugby. We will certainly be throwing it around on Sunday."