STANFORD Rugby Club held a pre-season fundraising day which was attended by East Thurrock MP Stephen Metcalfe.

The club was raising funds for the Paediatric and Adolescent Oncology Research Fund, which seeks to raise awareness of, and research a cure for, child and adolescent cancers.

One of the club’s youth players, Luke Dawson, is recovering from cancer, which was the main driving force behind organising the day and raising money for charity.

Stanford took on Baker Rugby Club in a friendly on the day, which also included events such as a conversion challenge, face-painting, an auction and a “man vs food competition”, at the club’s Grove Road ground.

There was also a DJ, karaoke, live music and a late bar. The event was also attended by Stanford and Corringham councillors James Halden and Shane Hebb.

Mr Metcalfe said: “It was a pleasure to visit the rugby club for their day of fundraising for this worthy charity.

“It is always brilliant to see people come together to rally behind an important cause and I hope that they were able to raise a significant amount of money. I would like to thank and congratulate all involved in making the day so successful.

“I am sure that the Paediatric and Adolescent Oncology Research Fund will be extremely grateful for any contribution and I hope that people enjoyed visiting the club as much as I did.

“I would like to wish Stanford all the best for the season and will be keeping any eye on their progress.”