Motty and his mates blow away Bloomfields!

Broadcasting legend John Motson, Hereford’s FA Cup hero Ricky George and top comedian Mike Maguire helped Needham Market raise more than £2500 at the Ryman North club’s second Sportsman’s Evening.

More than 100 people attended last Thursday night’s event in aid of the Suffolk club at the Hintlesham Hall Golf Club, guests enjoying a three course meal before being entertained by veteran Match of the Day commentator Motson, Hereford’s goal-scoring hero from their famous 1972 FA Cup win over First Division Newcastle United and Manchester-based Maguire.

Organiser Mark Easlea is pictured presenting ‘Motty’ with a Marketmen shirt flanked by George, right, and Maguire, left, the latter credited with leaving the audience ‘in pieces’ with his impressions of sports stars and celebrities from Mick McCarthy to Terry Wogan.

NMFC commercial manager Alan Jopling was delighted by the success of the evening and is now looking forward to organising their next event with other officials at Bloomfields.

He said: "Motty wore his customary sheepskin jacket whilst reminiscing on many stories from his and Ricky's long careers, particularly Motty's 43 years on Match of the Day. Maguire was simply brilliant and the evening generated in excess of £2,500 towards club funds and was supported by Needham Market FC committee, supporters and club sponsors.

"This support was greatly appreciated and with everyone being thoroughly entertained during the evening, the event was a great success. The club intend to hold such an event annually each October and plans are already being considered for our next event."