Annual wheelchair rugby tournament, The Peacock Cup is set to take place this October thanks to support from Doncaster based food engineering company, Fess Group Ltd who is sponsoring the event.
The first Peacock Cup tournament launched in 2018 to raise funds for the Hope House Children’s Hospital in Oswestry following the tragic death of Thomas Jones, the 3 year old the grandson of North Wales Crusaders Wheelchair Rugby League coach Steven Jones and the son of Team manager Sophie Jones.
The one-day tournament involves four teams from across the country coming together to compete for the Cup and to raise awareness and funds for the charity which provides much needed support and services to families who are impacted by terminal illness and death in childhood.
Organiser and Thomas’ uncle, Harry Jones said: “I set up the Cup two years ago as a way of saying thank you to Hope House for all the support they had given my family and as a tribute to Thomas who loved coming to watch the team. His death was a huge loss to our rugby family and community and I’m really thankful for all those involved, including FESS Ltd, whose support is essential for us to continue to host the event and raise much needed funds.”
David Anderson, Managing Director of FESS Group Ltd, who provide food manufacturing and engineering services nationwide and Director of Betfred League One team, North Wales Crusaders added: “We are extremely proud to support the Peacock Cup and the Jones family. The event has raised a fantastic amount of money for the Hope House Hospice and has provided a great event for all the family to enjoy. The strength and determination of the players is a joy to watch and look forward to seeing who wins the trophy this year.”
Now part of the Wheelchair Rugby League calendar, the event has raised thousands of pounds for the Hospice. Alongside the rugby games, the event is a fun packed day for the family with an opportunity to try the sport and enjoy raffles and bake sale.
Harry adds: “Despite the current situation, we are still hopeful the event will be able to take place on Sunday 4th October and all the tournament games will be streamed live on to our social media feeds and available to watch again on the North Wales Crusaders Disability Sports Club Youtube Channel. We’re liaising with all the teams and will keep people updated on our website with any changes.”
This year’s Cup will see teams travel from Dundee, Gravesend and Warrington to compete alongside hosts and current holders of the Peacock Cup winners title, North Wales Crusaders.
