Massive support for man who lost his eye

Wayne Jopson lost the sight in his right eye in a rugby injury in February

The friends of a man who was blinded in one eye whilst playing rugby have raised £4,200 via a fundraiser for him.

Wayne Jopson, 31, was injured in what he described as a ‘freak accident’ playing for Mayfield Rugby League in February this year.

Mr Jopson has lost sight in his right eye and has had a temporary false eye fitted.

Copperpot FC, in conjunction with Mayfield RLFC, held the benefit for Wayne at Castleton Sports Centre.

A spokesman for Copperpot, the highly successful football team Mr Jopson served for many years, said: "The turn out and support was unbelievable. In a venue which holds only 150 over 350 people turned out, many more bought tickets as a gesture. Over £3000 pounds was raised from ticket sales alone. There was also an auction and raffle held which raised another £1000. Many businesses contributed prizes including Physio Works, Jamilla Paul, Rochdale AFC, Sheffield Utd, Burnley FC, Sale Sharks, Oldham AFC, Everton FC, Bolton Wanderers and Ricky Hatton.

Many local artists dedicated their time free including Brendon Decko, Andy Lee & the very talented vocalist January.

Steve Whitehead of Copperpot FC and owner of Physioworks added; "Copperot FC would like to thank everybody who dedicated their time and effort to make this possible - too many to mention but in particular special thanks to Aidy McDermott who organised the entertainment and the benefit, Mayfield ARLC, the Ratu family and Pete Duffy for all their hard work in sourcing the prizes and helping with the organization and all the players and officials at both clubs who sold tickets. Thanks also to local businesses, including Rochdale Online, who supported these efforts.

"The success and turn out shows how popular this young man is. It wasn’t all about raising money it was also to show the appreciation, care and respect we have for Wayne as a person and a local amateur sportsman. It was nice to help Wayne financially, especially when he hasn’t been able to work for two months and probably a few months more.

"Wayne is probably one of the most successful amateur footballers in this town with over twenty titles to his name and I know he would belong on the top table with some of the best players to grace the amateur scene in this town.

"Many local clubs were represented, Rochdalians, Weavers, Whitworth Valley to name but a few; also local referees and the two leagues.

"Rochdale receives a lot of stick, however, days like this just shows what the town is all about, especially the amateur sporting community, everybody comes together when called upon and sporting differences are put aside."

Mayfield will also be holding a family day in aid of Wayne in the summer and there will also be a veterans football match.