THEY are rallying round to help one of their own as he struggles to rebuild his life.

A major fundraising event is being held today to help a Hampshire rugby player who collapsed with a brain haemorrhage in a training session.

Self-employed Pete Noonan, 32, has been off work for almost three weeks and is unlikely to return to his job for several months.

He plays for Eastleigh RFC, who are holding a two-hour event following today’s games at their ground in Bishopstoke Road, Bishopstoke.

The fundraising session will include an auction featuring a London Irish shirt and tickets for one of their games among the lots.

Eastleigh has been flooded with messages of support from rugby players across Hampshire since Pete was taken ill on October 27.

The experienced centre collapsed in front of horrified team-mates just minutes after starting a training session.

Close friend Russell Smith said: “We were passing the ball to each other when Pete went down clutching his head. He said he had a terrible headache and couldn’t move.”

The stricken player was taken by ambulance to Southampton General Hospital and spent two weeks on the wards.

Russell added: “It was nothing to do with rugby – doctors say it could have happened at any time.

“He’s got to rest for a long while and won’t work for three or four months, which is not a good position to be in financially. Luckily he’s only got himself to fend for.”

Now fellow players at the close-knit club are rallying to the his aid.

Russell said: “We’re not just mates, we’re family – it’s like a brotherhood. We’d all give our left arm for one another.

“All three of our teams are going to be at home today, which makes it an ideal day to stage a fundraising event.

“I’d like to collect between £1,000 and £1,500, which isn’t a huge amount but will help him for a little while.”

Pete, a labourer, is staying with his parents at their home in Thornhill, Southampton, while he recovers from his ordeal.

Russell added: “He’s keen to get back to a normal life but even little tasks make him fatigued at the moment. He’d love a beer, but that’s not going to happen for a long time.

“I reckon Pete will play rugby again if he gets the all-clear – but this season is definitely out.”

The fundraising session is due to start at about 4pm.