RAFA ADDS TO BENFIELD FUND

BIG-hearted Newcastle Benfield are raising thousands of pounds for a hospital cancer ward where their player Kieran Wrightson was treated for 12 weeks.

Admission for Wednesday’s 6-0 home win over Sunderland RCA was on a “pay what you want” basis so that spectators could make voluntary donations to the Freeman Hospital Ward 34 appeal.

The Northern League Division One outfit’s committee men Ian Cusack, Dave Robson and Gary Thompson covered the match officials’ fees out of their own pockets. Referee Dean Hulme donated his match fee and local taxi firm Borderline Taxis added £150 to the appeal.

Newcastle United boss Rafa Benitez also sent a signed United shirt along with a signed letter and photograph for a raffle.

Club press officer Allan Young said: “It shows just how well Kieran was respected in the Northern League family.”

So far the club has raised more than £2000.