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Wednesday 29th April saw the Rockware Rugby League Ground at Knottingley stage a match in memory of Don Cook who was tragically killed in an underground accident at Kellingley Colliery.in September last year. The match was originally arranged between the lads from the pit and Featherstone Rovers but unfortunately Featherstone were unable to play due to no accredited Doctor approved by the Rugby League being available on the night. However the match still went ahead and despite the late withdrawal the spectators turned out in force to witness a spirited match, fiercely contested with plenty to entertain the crowd.
Special thanks for the coaching skills and availability of Dave Scott and Gary Ward who organised the two teams on the night.The match officials from Leeds Carnegie who included Don`s son Andrew kept a good grip on the game and were responsible for allowing the game to flow despite the "odd knock-on"!! The "after match" social evening was a memorable event including an auction of Rugby Memorabilia superbly compered by the versatile Gary Ward (who would equally be at home in "Christies" should he decide to take up alternative employment!!) thanks also go to the Kellingley/Knottingley Social Club Committee for being such good hosts and special praise for Karen and her staff for the excellent buffet provided courtesy of Raleys Solicitors.
A well supported raffle that supplemented the auction which altogether realised approximately £3,500. Don`s wife Sue made a moving speech that concluded the evening`s proceedings.The proceeds from the evening will be split between a permanent memorial at the colliery and the Thornycroft Miners Recreational Centre at Pontefract. Chris Skidmore (Yorks Area NUM Chairman) commented "little did I realise when I suggested the idea how much time and effort would be needed to organise such an event."" I must pay tribute to the efforts of all the lads at Kellingley for ensuring it`s huge success with special thanks indeed to the two Keiths,John,Steve,Tommy , Paul & Nigel for all their hard work." "If i have missed anyone out please accept my apologies no slight is intended" "My everlasting memory of the night was the "MUGGING" of Chris Kitchen (Yorkshire Area & National NUM Secretary) who despite being away in Ireland on Union Business took part in the auction by using his mobile phone!!! absolutely priceless)!!!