I understand from Mark that, like us, you were privileged to know Russ. Prior to his passing last summer we hosted a very successful event (Raise for Russ rugby match) from which we raised approx. £10,000 towards the charities of Russ’ choosing.

With all of the work Russ did for Ormskirk and Rugby we felt it fitting that we should create a development fund in his memory. As part of this we will annually host the Raise for Russ match to raise funds for both the charities Russ supported and youth rugby development.

We had noticed via Facebook and Southport Visitor that you guys are hosting a 25 hour rugby match aiming to raise £12,000 for Gareth Lang’s daughter Ella who suffers from Cystic Fibrosis.

My colleague Cliff Kirby last week contacted Colin Toohey, Mike Dale and Gareth Lang to offer to allocate some of the monies raised at R4R2 to the cause for Ella; having asked Russ’ family and the stakeholders within the club on this matter, we were all in agreement that what you guys are doing is both brilliant and worthwhile, and that if we can help we should!

I also understand from Mark that you had kindly offered to donate a raffle prize for R4R2 – we really appreciate your gesture. And of course you would be more than welcome to join us on the day. We have a “whole club” rugby match at 3pm – there are likely to be some 60 members with rolling substitutes – so if you want to bring your boots and take part you’d be very welcome.

Graham it’s really pleasing to know that, although we are the fiercest of local rivals, the bond of rugby is shared in these mutual events. It would be great to develop further links on an Executive basis.

Wishing you good luck for your World Record challenge and thanking you once again for your offer of support for R4R2.

Thanks to Angus Matheson I shall be donating on behalf of Southport RFC two of his prints, one of the two teams together under the posts which Angus took following the inaugural u24 match last season between the two clubs and also one taken at the recent Lancashire v Derbyshire county match at S&B. This reflects the love of the two sports that Russ had in his all too short life.

On behalf of everyone connected with Southport RFC we thank Nick and his club mates for their terrific gesture and we wish everyone a great afternoon at Green Lane on Saturday and hopefully some funds can be raised via a raffle or an auction of the prints. I hope to pop over but mind you I won't take up the kind offer to bring my boots, but if anyone else not training for the World Record attempt fancies it....