Vikings raise £20,000 for Sir Bobby Robson Foundation

Widnes Vikings have revealed that their inititative to help to the Sir Bobby Robson Foundation has raised £20,000.

The main part of the initiative consisted of the Vikings players wearing a special black and white striped shirt, mimicing that of Newcastle United, for Magic Weekend.

All profits from sales of the shirt were donated to the initiative, which was the brainchild of Widnes marketing director Brian O’Connor.

“Our club has a very strong black and white heritage,” he said.

“At the outset this initiative was about tying our colours in with the famous black and white stripes of our Magic Weekend hosts.

“As a small club in the First Utility Super League we have to work harder than some of our compeititors to make sure that the Widnes Vikings brand is prominent in people’s minds.

“We wanted to do something to make our mark in the North East and to leave a lasting legacy both for Widnes Vikings and the sport of Rugby League.

“Working with the Sir Bobby Robson Foundation has allowed us to do something incredibly special.

“It has been a privilege to work with such a prestigious charity that works tirelessly to provide vital services within the North East but that also has an incredible impact on international cancer research.”

Sir Bobby’s son, Andrew Robson, was moved by the gesture from the Widnes club.

“It’s been an absolute pleasure working with Widnes Vikings,” he said.

“The support the Sir Bobby Robson Foundation has received from the club and its fans has been outstanding.

“To see the players and fans in black and white stripes, here at St James’ Park, was very special.  Watching rugby league here has been a new experience for me and something I’ve enjoyed a great deal.

“Our thanks to everyone who has supported our cancer charity by buying a Widnes Vikings Magic Weekend shirt.

“The money raised will help us continue the work my Dad began when he launched his charity and will go towards finding better ways to detect and treat cancer.”