A KEIGHLEY venue was packed for a fundraising night in support of a former Keighley Cougars star diagnosed with Motor Neurone disease.

The night at the Octagon, in Bradford Road, raised cash for the Motor Neurone Disease Association, and was arranged by Mick O'Neill and Mike Smith, former colleagues at the club who were a driving force behind 'Cougarmania' in the 1990s.

Phil Stephenson, a long-serving prop who played 343 games for the club, has Motor Neurone disease. His diagnosis was confirmed earlier this summer.

The fundraiser in his name, dubbed "Big Phil's Big Night" took place on September 14.

Attractions included a Beatles tribute band, which performed songs from the 1970s and 80s, a DJ and food.

A spokesman for the organisers said: "Cougars legends from all over the world sent messages of support for Phil and many also attended, such as current Super League champions Castleford coach Daryl Powell.

"Daryl recalled his time at Cougars and said: 'I had to come tonight, first for a special lad but also for a special town and a special club. I so enjoyed my time here.'

"Over £2,000 was raised on the night and a cheque for £400 from King's College School Wimbledon was sent through their teacher Sean Ryan, son of the late Holy Family Catholic School deputy head master Danny Ryan.

"The school had recently done a project about Keighley Cougars in the legendary 1990s."

Mr O'Neill said the night at the Octagon had been "amazing". He thanked the Stephenson family for allowing the evening to be held, and thanked Octagon owners John and Josie Pennington who donated their venue for the evening.