Grand effort as international collection helps with Centurions’ fighting fund (From Leigh Journal)

Grand effort as international collection helps with Centurions’ fighting fund

10:48am Friday 4th November 2011 in Centurions By David Parkinson

THE England versus Wales international at Leigh Sports Village Stadium on Saturday has played a part in helping with Leigh Centurions’ finances.

A bucket collection at the Gillette Four Nations clash reaped £1,235.06 for the fighting fund set up to help the Centurions, who were recently saved by RFL involvement after the threat of being wound up by HM Revenue and Customs.

LeighSurvival spokesman Dave Parkinson said: “The RFL were very receptive to the idea, as were the management of Leigh Sports Village and I thank both organisations for helping to make this possible.

“This amount is way beyond my expectations and just shows how generous rugby league fans are.

“I want to express my thanks and gratitude to everyone who gave up their Saturday afternoon or usual pre-match routine to come and help out.

“I met some fantastic people and can't speak highly enough for my volunteer collectors.

“We had 10 buckets positioned around the ground and all contributed significant amounts to the grand total."

LeighSurvival, who can be followed on twitter @LeighSurvival and Facebook (facebook.com/LeighSurvival), was set up in late September after the club’s financial difficulties became apparent.

A sponsored Tandem Ride and a collection at Thursday’s Four Nations fans’ forum raised a further £1,051 and £100 respectively.

LeighSurvival hope to continue fundraising alongside the established support channels of LISA (Leigh Independent Supporters’ Association) and the Corporate Club, who will soon be launching Touchdown Club.

The Touchdown Club launch event, aimed at local businesses and corporate guests, is to be held in the boardroom at the LSV on Tuesday at 5.30pm.

Another fans’ forum is in the process of being arranged by the club.