Hartlepool youth football team reunited for first time in 40 years to raise cash for town causes

Dwane Douglas (left) presents a cheque for the Cleveland Group of the Motor Neurone Disease Association to friend Robbie Pattison.

The get together of former King Oswy Rangers players for the first time in roughly 40 years took place at the South Durham (Steelworks) Club in Westbourne Road on Sunday, August 25.

It was organised by former Rangers player Dwane Douglas.

He wanted to raise money for local motor neurone disease charities after recently losing a close family friend to the brain condition.

King Oswy Rangers pictured around 1978. Back row (left to right) manager Billy Lodge, Geoff Picher, Paul Proudlock, Kevin Shears, Billy Stubbs, Robbie Oliver, Les Harwood, and trainer Steven Murray. Front (left to right) Ian Donnely, James Tyres, Anthony Steele, Stuart Roy, Peter Kelsey, Dwane Douglas and Colin Turnbull.

The event was well supported with several former players in attendance and people enjoying live music.

Band Dig the Old Breed and popular Irish singer Dan Donnelly took to the stage and entertained the crowd.

It all helped to raise £951 on the night.

Dwane said: “Seven or eight of the lads turned up and made it a great night.

“I would like to thank the players who turned up and Dan Donnelly and Dig the Old Breed.

“Not a lot of people know about motor neurone disease. Sadly, I have just lost a family friend through it so I know how harsh it is for people who have got it.

“I’m really happy with the people who supported the night and would like to say thank you to all of the sponsors.”

Dwane is seen here presenting a cheque for £400 for the Cleveland Group of the Motor Neurone Disease Association to friend Robbie Pattison who helped on the night.

The remaining £551 went to the Doddy Weir Foundation which funds research into the disease.