SOME of the sport’s biggest names helped Banbury RFC raise more than £20,000 towards buying the freehold on their pitches.

Former England Rugby World Cup stars Martin Johnson, Ben Kay and Rory Underwood joined hundreds of members and supporters for a dinner and auction of promises.

The event was hosted by Leicester Tigers lock Matt Poole in front of a packed clubhouse.

Banbury president Mark Boland said: “The event was, quite simply, an outstanding success.

“The biggest thank you should go to the 300 people attending and their incredible generosity – the event raised more than £20,000 towards our purchase of the pitches.”