Rugby legends unite to fundraise for MND charity in upcoming gala dinner

Some of the biggest names of international rugby will come together to raise funds for Motor Neurone Disease (MND) through a night of fundraising, fine dining and entertainment.

The Rugby Legends Gala Dinner will take place at the Allianz Stadium on September 5, with the participation of past players including World Rugby Hall of Fame inductee Jason Robinson, alongside Neil Back, Phil Vickery, Mike Tindall, Maggie Alphonsi, Rocky Clark, Emily Scarrrat, and Meg Jones (pictured).

More rugby stars will be announced soon.

The highlight of the evening will be when 40 of the biggest names in international rugby unite to form the Rugby Legends Choir.

They will perform a song specifically written by the internationally renowned performer Laura Wright, in a bid to boost funding for Motor Neurone Disease through the Mel Evans MND Foundation.

Tickets will be available soon where guests can enjoy pitch side VIP reception with every table being hosted by a rugby legend.

The Mel Evans MBE foundation honours the legacy of Mel Evans MBE, a champion Crown Green Bowler responsible for bringing the sport to TV with more than 100 caps for Staffordshire County.

It was founded by Mel’s wife Lynn Pritchatt, following his death. Both Mel and Lynn have enjoyed illustrious careers in the sport and spearheaded media coverage on platforms including Sky TV and Channel 4.

Since Mel’s passing, the Crown Green Bowling community has rallied around the foundation, helping raise more than £100,000 for MND research.

Lynn Pritchatt, founder and CEO of The Mel Evans MND Foundation, said: “The Rugby Legends Choir Gala Dinner promises to be a once in a lifetime opportunity to be in the presence of Rugby ‘greatness’ as the choir take to the stage to perform the specially written song that truly embodies the MND family.

“We are honoured to be working with renowned singer/songwriter Laura Wright, known for singing the national anthem at Twickenham, in addition to composing the music for the Invictus Games.

“Tragically, Laura lost her Dad to MND a year ago and she has channelled that emotion into writing the most beautiful song ‘Don’t Waste a Moment’.

“I am excited to be working alongside Laura and the lads/lasses in the Choir and very much look forward to this very special night on 5 September.”

To enquire about table packages, contact Stuart Bates MBE on stuartbatesmbe@gmail.com or by calling 07591 133558.