Hundreds of Rockets and friends from North East Rugby League celebrated the life of Christopher Wallace, an original Rocket who sadly passed away in 2012 at only the age of 25 due to deep vein thrombosis.

Every year, Christopher’s one and only rugby club hold a weekend of celebration to remember his bubbly character.

This year the Rockets decided to hold a rugby festival to which they invited the other local community clubs, who came long in impressive.

Hot coffee and delicious cake were on sale to warm the soul on a chilly September morning.

The Rocket Tots stayed warm inside while teams from Cramlington, Whitley Bay, Alnwick, Gateshead, Catterick and Peterlee all played their part in one the best rugby festivals the North East has ever seen!

Rockets Community Partner, Nando’s Cramlington showed their community spirit by attending the event and treat the children to a surprise visit from local favourite Barci, the Nando’s mascot.

Assistant Manager at Nando’s Cramlington, Dan Nesbitt had this to say:

“It’s such a sad yet real story about Christopher losing his life due to deep vein thrombosis.
When Cramlington Rockets asked us to be involved it was an immediate ‘yes’ and we are thrilled they have had a great turn out.”

Reflecting on the massively successful event, Community Manager, Steve Beaty was very pleased with how the day went:

“I’m so grateful to all our amazing volunteers and the other North East clubs for putting on such a good show today.

Christopher was a big part of the Rockets when we were in our first years.

I just know he would be so proud of how far the club has come.

We are very passionate about raising money for the British heart Foundation and I am very grateful to see everyone show up and help us raise money for such a great cause.”

In total, £700 was raised on the day. It is still possible to donate to the British Heart Foundation by our JustGiving page by clicking HERE.