A popular wheelchair rugby team from Newcastle receiving a £1,000 donation from Community Champions

Newcastle Wheelchair Rugby Club, which includes participation in both rugby codes with North East Barbarians Wheelchair Rugby Union and Newcastle Thunder Wheelchair Rugby League, applied to our Community Champions scheme, which was created to give support to regional charities, organisations and good causes.

Adam Robson, player, coach, captain and vice chairman of Newcastle Wheelchair Rugby, said: “We are an all inclusive wheelchair rugby club which is open to everyone - no matter what their age, gender or disability - all are welcome. As it is rugby played in wheelchairs, it means men and women, boys and girls, can compete alongside each other, something most sports cannot offer.

“We are currently keen to grow our membership and are attempting to raise £3,500 to buy a new rugby wheelchair, which means we can get more people involved in this amazing sport. We are grateful to Persimmon Homes North East for this fantastic donation to our cause which will enable us to get this additional wheelchair as soon as possible.”

Debbie Zaben, sales director for North East region, added: “It is a great pleasure to be able to provide this funding to Newcastle Wheelchair Rugby Club to help them get the additional wheelchair they need. Wheelchair rugby is an exciting sport for those who take part and for those who watch and we wish them the best of luck with all their activities and competitions this year.”