Benny’s charity gets off to a flier

PHIL Bennett would not have believed it possible that a dinner to mark the launch of a charity in his name would raise more than £40,000 in roughly half the time it took France to demolish England.

That so many dug so readily into their pockets, none more deeply than the anonymous bidder who paid £10,000 for a Bennett grog, gives some idea of the enduring admiration for one of the game’s best-loved figures.

Faithful friends have taken steps to ensure that his name will live on in the Phil Bennett Foundation. It’s laudable objectives are contained in the missionary statement:

“Phil was so much more than one of the greatest players of a great generation. It was his greatness as a human being that saw him transcend sport. Humble, kind and selfless, he was a genius on the pitch and a true gentleman off it.

“Born and raised in Felinfoel, Phil came from modest beginnings but went on to become a sporting superstar. It is no coincidence that the purpose of the Phil Bennett Foundation is to raise money to help disadvantaged, disabled or under-privileged individuals to participate in sport.

“Phil’s remarkable generosity, his unwavering desire to help others and his love of all sports will live on through the Foundation; a fitting tribute to a once-in-a-lifetime player and a oncein-a-lifetime person.’’

The event’s success, due in no small way to Craig Quinnell’s formidably different brand of auctioneering, has given the Foundation a flying start.

“We’re thrilled at the response,’’ says James Bennett who attended the black tie event alongside his mother, Pat, and older brother Steven. “We cannot thank everyone enough for getting the Phil Bennett Foundation off to such a great start.’’