Virtual fundraiser generates thousands of pounds for sports clubs across Calderdale

Halifax SOS featured a mix of interviews, music and comedy over last Saturday and Sunday, with appearances from rugby legend Brian Moore, paralympian Hannah Cockroft and ex-rugby players Gary Mercer, Des Clark and Greg Florimo.

The money raised will be split 50-50 between Halifax RLFC and sports clubs across the borough.

Organiser Lee Kenny said: “We couldn’t have been happier. Despite tough economic times, over 400 tickets were sold and thanks to generous donations, including a partial match funding from the Community Foundation for Calderdale, we raised just over £12,000.

“Money will be split between Halifax RLFC and junior sport grants for local clubs, the latter being administered and distributed by the foundation. Details of how to apply will be on CFFC.co.uk within the next week or so.

“Hundreds of fans engaged with the campaign over the weekend and clips and video coverage were viewed almost 700,000 times on Twitter alone, with a guest appearance by Chris Kamara being a fan favourite.

“Highlights of the weekend included a 35 minute interview with Brian Moore, who talked in depth about the future of the game with recommendations for the womens and junior sections.

“Hannah Cockroft and Lizzie Jones discussed everything from training to lockdown and mental health, and throughout the weekend fans loved seeing the past players being interviewed, especially the Aussie based Gary Mercer, Des Clark and Greg Florimo.

“Also with comedy from Lea Roberts and Pete Emmett, writing tips from Bob and Carol Bridgestock plus music from local artists, there really was something for everyone to enjoy.

“Halifax Junior Cricket League also did a phenomenal job of getting videos of support from Sir Curtly Ambrose, Alex Lees, Ryan Sidebottom, Will Fraine, Curtis Brathwaite, current West Indies captain Jason Holder and ECB Board member Kamlesh Patel.”

Lee, who owns Snowflake Media, he has established the Snowflake Support Our Sport Fund, and hopes to raise over £100,000 in the coming year to help local sports clubs.

“Our next step is to publish all the interviews separately so people can view at their leisure,” he said.

“With over six hours of programming, the support from everyone was phenomenal. From fans buying tickets and donating through to sponsors, the celebrities and sports personalities and of course all those behind the scenes, it really was quite humbling.”

Lee is now considering another online event, special auctions and when it’s safe to do so, in-person events.

“We will be asking fans whether there is an appetite for more footballers and from other sports to help keep it fresh and interesting going forward,” he said.

“If people still want to contribute or donate, they can do so at the dedicated page https://localgiving.org/HalifaxSOS.”

Steve Duncan, from the Community Foundation for Calderdale, said: “The COVID-19 restrictions have been challenging for sports people, for sports clubs and for spectators and I applaud Lee Kenny of Snowflake Media for coming up with HalifaxSOS and thanks to everyone who participated and watched the weekend of entertainment, raising much needed funds for local sport.

“I am delighted to confirm that the Community Foundation for Calderdale will add £5,000 to the monies already raised to help Halifax Rugby League FC and local sports clubs as we start to come out of lockdown and into the new normal.”