Rugby stars to raise Diverse Abilities Plus cash at lunch (From Thisisdorset)

Rugby stars to raise Diverse Abilities Plus cash at lunch

4:00pm Friday 7th September 2012 in Latest By Emma Joseph

RUGBY legends will be helping to raise vital funds for a Dorset charity at its second annual Rugby Lunch.

Diverse Abilities Plus, which supports disabled children and adults across the county, is hosting the event at Hoburne Park in Christ-church on Friday, September 14, and organisers hope to top the £18,000 raised at last year’s inaugural World Cup Rugby Lunch.

Rugby legends Jason Leonard OBE and David Duckham MBE will be the celebrity guest speakers at the lunch.

David, a former English rugby union star, played 36 games for England from 1969 to 1976 and scored ten tries, while former English rugby union prop forward Jason held the world record for winning the most international caps until 2005 and is still the world’s most-capped forward.

Attendees at the event, sponsored by Coleman Insurance and supported by Barclays, will enjoy a three-course lunch and can take part in a charity auction and raffle, with prizes donated by the guest rugby stars and local businesses.

The first lot in the auction is for two hospitality tickets for a rugby game of the winner’s choice at the Twickenham Stoop Stadium in Middlesex, home to the Harlequins Rugby club, plus a framed shirt signed by Sir Jason Leonard MBE and photographs signed by Johnny Wilkinson.

Sharon Wells, events fundraiser for Diverse Abilities Plus, said: “Because last year’s lunch was such a success we didn’t hesitate to arrange it again this year and are thrilled it has nearly sold out.”

To book tickets, at £42.50 per person, or for details contact Sharon Wells at Diverse Abilities Plus via sharon.wells@diverseabilitiesplus.org.uk or call 01202 718266. For more information about Diverse Abilities Plus visit diverseabilities plus.org.uk.