A ‘tag’ rugby tournament held at Ilkley Rugby Club has raised £3500 for a local charity, The Principle Trust, which supports disadvantaged children.
Coaches and parents went head-to-head in the inaugural Ilkley RFC Juniors International T5s Tag Tournament in aid of The Principle Trust, which provides free respite breaks to children who are underprivileged, disadvantaged, disabled, have life-limiting conditions, or who have experienced poverty, trauma or abuse.
The ‘Tag-of-War’ was supported by a host of local businesses and individuals including Ilkley based TaxAssist Accountants and community broadcasters Drystone Radio.
12 teams, comprising coaches, parents and guests battled their way to a nail-biting final in which Ilkley Barbarians were crowned worthy winners. Runners up ‘Charlie’s Angels’ gave a brave performance whilst Earnshaw’s Eagles bagged the dubious honour of the wooden spoon.
The tournament, which was organised by Ilkley RFC’s Under 9 coaching team, smashed its £1000 fundraising target and is now set to become an annual fixture in the club’s calendar with a re-match scheduled for 27 April 2025.
Commenting after the event lead organiser Pete Small said: ‘We’re indebted to all the players, local businesses and supporters who made this event such a success. The money raised will fund much-needed respite breaks for seven disadvantaged families.
Established in 2011 by Ilkley businessman Mike Davies, MBE, The Principle Trust supports children experiencing long term, life threatening or limiting illnesses disabilities, mental health issues or social deprivation. Over the last 13 years the charity has raised over £1.7m and provided breaks for 5000 children. For more information visit www.theprincipletrust.co.uk.