MORE than 200 members and supporters of Thirsk Rugby Club, including several of its founders, have celebrated its 20th anniversary with a black tie dinner.

Chairman Dave Wood said nearly £3,000 was raised towards club development funds after businesses donated an array of prizes for a raffle and auction, which was compered by former Great Britain rugby league and British Lions and England rugby union international John Bentley.

The former Newcastle Falcons player also entertained members attending the three-course dinner at Thirsk Sports and Social Club with stories about his playing days, while president Jon Barr told how in the club's early days training had sometimes taken place in a car park, with players having to dodge vehicles.

Mr Wood thanked members of Thirsk Sports and Social Club for helping run the event.

Mr Barr said the club, which fields several men's teams, a women's team and numerous teams for children, was set to move from its home at Thirsk Racecourse to the Sowerby Gateway sports village, when it was completed.

He said the move would enable the club, which has recently launched micro rugby sessions for boys and girls aged two to five years, to expand further.