A Manchester-based recruitment firm has raised an impressive £50,000 for The Christie, a renowned cancer hospital, after hosting a charity rugby event at the Etihad Complex. The City Recruiter, originally aiming to raise £10,000, exceeded their target fourfold by selling nearly 600 tickets for the inaugural event on Sunday, 29th September.
The charity rugby day was organised by Nick Ryan, head of The City Recruiter and a former Salford rugby player, along with his long-time friend Chris Bamber. Chris’ wife, Sarah, was diagnosed with terminal breast cancer last year and has been receiving treatment at The Christie, a specialist cancer hospital in Manchester. The event was a tribute to the care Sarah has received and a celebration of community spirit.
Despite the chill in the air, both players and spectators remained in high spirits throughout the day, which began with a match between the GB Police Women’s Rugby team and Keighley Cougars Women’s team. The GB Police team made an early impact, scoring a try within seconds of the whistle. They continued to dominate, ultimately securing a 72-6 victory.
Max Barker, captain of the GB Police Women’s team, said: “That score represents who we are as a team, and there’s so much more to come from us. Many of us have friends and family affected by cancer, so we were keen to be involved in such a meaningful event.”
Keighley Cougars Coach Darren Collins praised his team’s efforts, noting that the turnout for women’s rugby was “fantastic” and highlighting the growth of the women’s game. “The women’s game is flourishing right now. We’ve got to keep that momentum going,” he said.
Next up was a match featuring the newly formed Manchester Select Men’s team, led by co-organisers Nick Ryan and Chris Bamber, against the GB Police Men’s team. Despite strong defensive efforts from Manchester Select, the GB Police team secured a 22-4 victory. Manchester Select, however, refused to give up and scored a try in the final moments of the match.
Steve Molloy, Manchester Select’s Head Coach and former professional rugby player, praised the team for their dedication. “These guys have put their bodies on the line today. Some haven’t laced up their boots in a decade, but they went out and competed for 80 minutes. It’s inspiring,” Molloy said. “Cancer has affected so many of us personally, and the work that The Christie does is so important.”
Warrington Wolves winger Matty Ashton also attended the event, cheering on the teams and later presenting the day’s raffle. “It was a fantastic day. Everyone seemed to enjoy themselves, and it’s all for a great cause. The Christie does so much for people’s lives, and seeing the community come together like this is really special,” Ashton said.
Reflecting on the success of the event, co-organiser Chris Bamber said: “It’s been a genuine pleasure to see our hard work pay off. The turnout and support have been incredible.” Nick Ryan added: “The sense of community and togetherness has been overwhelming. This event will leave us with cherished memories, and we are proud to have made a difference for The Christie.”
