Sports lovers help hospice

MORE than 200 people packed a sportsman's evening with ex-England footballer Joe Royle.

Wolstanton Rotary Club staged the event at the Britannia Stadium to support the Donna Louise Trust.

The night, which also featured comedian Jed Stone, raised more than £3,000.

An auction featured lots such as signed shirts from darts ace Phil Taylor, Stoke City and Port Vale players and Manchester United and Portugal star Cristiano Ronaldo, pictured.

Rotary club president Larry Austin said: "In these austere times, it is remarkable how the people of Newcastle and Stoke respond so positively to supporting local charities.

"We were one of the first organisations to raise money for Donna Louise 10 years ago, and we are extremely proud that we have managed to help them again."

Proceeds will be presented to the charity on April 23.