Keighley Riley Turner fun night flop only hits £500 (From Keighley News)

Keighley Riley Turner fun night flop only hits £500

8:00pm Monday 25th February 2013 in Keighley

Organisers of a fundraiser to help the family of tragic toddler Riley Turner have voiced their disappointment after it coined in just £500 – half the target figure.

Live bands, DJs, an auction and raffle formed part of Sunday evening’s event at the Royal Oak in Damside.

Several businesses and organisations had donated goods for the entertainment extravaganza, which was staged by the pub with backing from Keighley’s Jam Radio.

Paddy Gaskin, assistant manager at the Royal Oak, said: “The first hour or so was busy but then it just fizzled out – we probably only had about 40 people.

“We are a bit disappointed because a lot of work went into staging it and we’d had generous support beforehand.

“Maybe Sunday was the wrong night to hold it, I don’t know. As far as I’m aware the event didn’t clash with anything else.”

DJs including Jam Radio’s Phil Hickinson attended, and there were performances from Bon Bonz and Boys From The Bench.

Among lots in the auction were a signed Huddersfield Town football shirt – which sold for £50 – and one worn by ex-Scotland international and current Motherwell boss Stuart McCall during his days with Bradford City in its Premier League spell. That raised £55.

Mr Gaskin successfully bid for a signed, framed shirt donated by Keighley’s international pool player Chris Melling.

The shirt was worn at last year’s Mosconi Cup tournament.

“I paid £140 for it but I’ll be speaking to Chris and I’m hoping it may bring in more, which will boost the kitty,” said Mr Gaskin.

There was also a raffle, and prizes left over will be given to Riley’s family together with the event proceeds. Items on offer included a hamper donated by Timothy Taylor brewery.

A planned pool contest was cancelled due to insufficient numbers.

Four-year-old Riley died at his home in Harewood Road, Bracken Bank, last month. His funeral service took place at St Joseph’s RC Church, Ingrow, on Friday.

A 32-year-old man – Anwar Rosser, 32, who also lived in Harewood Road – has been charged with his murder.