Virtual fundraiser generates thousands for sports clubs

A virtual fundraising event has raised more than £12,000 for sports clubs in Calderdale.

Halifax SOS featured a mix of interviews, music and comedy over last Saturday and Sunday, with appearances from rugby legend Brian Moore and paralympian Hannah Cockroft.

The money raised will be split 50-50 between Halifax

RLFC and sports clubs across the borough.

Organiser Lee Kenny said: “We couldn’t have been happier. Despite tough economic times, over 400 tickets were sold and thanks to generous donations, including a partial match funding from the Community Foundation for Calderdale, we raised just over £12,000.

“Money will be split between

Halifax RLFC and junior sport grants for local clubs, the latter being administered and distributed by the foundation. Details of how to apply will be on CFFC. co.uk within the next week or so.

“Hundreds of fans engaged with the campaign over the weekend and clips and video coverage were viewed almost 700,000 times on Twitter alone, with a guest appearance by Chris Kamara being a fan favourite.

“Highlights of the weekend included a 35 minute interview with Brian Moore, who talked in depth about the future of the game with recommendations for the womens and junior sections.

“Hannah Cockroft and Lizzie Jones discussed everything from training to lockdown and mental health, and throughout the weekend fans loved seeing the past players being interviewed, especially the Aussie based Gary Mercer, Des Clark and Greg Florimo.

“If people still want to contribute or donate, they can do so at the dedicated page https://localgiving.org/HalifaxSOS.”