Thousands of pounds have been raised at a rugby dinner at an Oxfordshire pub hosted by England legend Steve Thompson MBE.
The charity dinner at The Old Crown Coaching Inn in Farringdon raised just under £4,000 for the HeadOn Foundation, which was founded by Mr Thompson.
The former hooker from England’s 2003 Rugby World Cup-winning team spoke about the journey of becoming a world-class athlete and his personal challenges, including his fight against early-onset dementia.
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The sporting star also talked about his ongoing efforts to help promote safety in the game for future generations.
The HeadOn Foundation helps and supports those living with, or caring for people with brain injury, early-onset dementia, mental health conditions, and other neurological problems.
Mr Thompson said: “It was an excellent event and I am thrilled that so much money has been raised for the HeadOn Foundation.”
The hotel’s head chef Samuel Squires created a six-course menu for the event which included lobster, venison loin and black treacle chicken.
Hotel manager, Sebastiaan Evans said: “It was a privilege for the Old Crown Coaching Inn to be able to host this prestigious dinner and welcome Steve Thompson as our guest of honour.
“The evening was a fantastic success and we are delighted it has helped to raise so much money for such an important charity.
“All the guests had a wonderful evening and enjoyed the fabulous fine-dining experience. Samuel and our team were able to provide for this very special occasion.”
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