Wood hails Summer Bash’s carnival of rugby league

RFL chief executive Nigel Wood believes that the first Summer Bash in Blackpool at the weekend was a great success.

A total crowd of 15,381 turned up over both days, with 8,360 on the Saturday, and 7,021 on Sunday.

As well as seven Championship games, spectators also saw North Wales Crusaders take home the first silverware of the season by beating Swinton Lions in the final of the iPro Sport Cup on Saturday.

“Summer Bash has been an event that the whole sport should feel proud of, it has been a fantastic weekend showcasing the Kingstone Press Championship and League 1,” said Wood.

“I would like to thank the fans who turned out in their thousands to create a carnival atmosphere both inside and outside the stadium, they have really embraced the new concept and helped make the event a great success.

“Congratulations must go to North Wales Crusaders on their spectacular win in the iPro Sport Cup final.

“For the fans who couldn’t make it to Bloomfield Road they were able to enjoy the high quality drama on the field by watching the great coverage Sky Sports provided over the weekend.

“I am looking forward to next year’s event and we will confirm the date and venue in due course.”