AN INCREASINGLY POPULAR tag rugby event in aid of a Silsden teenager, who broke his neck during a game, is expected to have raised more than £2,000.

The fourth Nathan Cubitt Tag Rugby Festival took place last Sunday (May 24) with money also collected in memory of former Keighley Cougars star Danny Jones, who died earlier this month after suffering a cardiac arrest during a game.

Mark Dunstan, who organised the event at Keighley Rugby Union Football Club, said: "It was a really successful day, with a really good turnout. Nathan had a brilliant day."

Dual-code legend and England rugby union World Cup winner Jason Robinson was once again at the event with his family.

Mr Dunstan said: "He was here with his family and showing his continuing support for Nathan.

"Ex-Cougars players Stuart Calvert and Karl Smith were also there, playing for NR Gym."

A total of 15 teams, all in fancy dress, took part in two competitions - a male-only one and a mixed event - with NR Gym's first and second teams taking first and second place in the mixed competition. The male tournament was won by Baywatch, who were from Keighley Rugby Union's first team.

Aside from the rugby, there were physio sessions run by Iain Harris physiotherapy, a tombola, various stalls, and an assault course and paintballing led by the Yorkshire Regiment. The Yorkshire Air Ambulance also had a stall.

Mr Dunstan added: "It is just great to do the event for Nathan and to see the rugby community coming together.

"It is continuing with Nathan's funding for anything he needs in the future. He is learning to drive so it would pay for an adapted car. It is there to provide for his future. He is a much-loved local lad."

Nathan, now 19, was aged 16 when he was seriously injured playing in an under 17s match for Keighley against Bradford & Bingley in 2011. He presented trophies to the winning teams at Sunday's event.

Mr Dunstan said more than £180 was raised in memory of Danny Jones with an auction and a balloon release.

Nathan's mum, Sue Cubitt, thanked local businesses who had contributed to making the occasion a success, including Iain Harris physiotherapy solutions, Blue Sky Event Solutions, FB Guest and KFA Medical.

"Everyone put in 100 per cent, from the teams and spectators to the organisers, and we really appreciate it," she added.

"It's a local event supported by local people for an inspirational young man.

"The turnout was very good – on a par with last year – and although the weather started out quite bleak the sun shone on us in the end."