FRIENDS, family and team mates rallied round for a night of fundraising to help a Hampshire rugby player rebuild his life.

More than 300 people came together to raise cash for Eastleigh RFC player Pete Noonan, who collapsed with a brain haemorrhage during a training session last month.

As reported, self-employed Pete, 32, has been off work for three weeks and is unlikely to return to his labourer job for several months.

But now his team mates and fellow rugby players have rallied to show their support for popular Pete - raising more than £1,500 towards his rehabilitation.

The fundraiser took place at the team’s club house on Bishopstoke Road, Eastleigh, and included an auction with prizes including London Irish merchandise and tickets for an Eastleigh match.

Russell Smith, one of Pete’s close friends, said: “We have held similar events at the club house before but something about this just felt a little bit special.

“We had players from other clubs that had been playing that day coming in donating and just having a drink with the guys.”

Players also cheered on club president Nick Mucci as he winched in pain whilst he got his chest waxed.

Russell added: “It was probably the best night we have had at the club for a long time.

“It was great to see everyone get involved and I think that is what is so special about rugby, that the community will rally around in whatever way they can.

“We are just one big family, no matter what team you play for.”