A PASSIONATE fan celebrated ten years as President of his beloved rugby club at a charity evening last week.

Despite Robert Baxter living in Bury St Edmunds, Harwich and Dovercourt Rugby Club has been close to his heart since he learned of the charity work done by players, supporters and committee members more than a decade ago.

Chairman Barry Male said: “We first met Robert when the Harwich team went over to Bury St. Edmunds to help out in a charity event, held to assist a badly injured player.

“Robert was so impressed with that and other charity events we were involved with that he joined us initially as a sponsor.

“His friendship with the club grew, so we invited him to become our President in 2005.

“Robert’s friendship, advice and general support have been so valuable in the development of our club.”

Robert’s contribution was celebrated at a glitzy charity evening called Bertie’s Bash at the club, in Low Road, Dovercourt, last week, with a three course dinner, entertainment from magician Michael J. Fitch and a fundraising raffle.

Money raised totalled £1,000 and will be split between Cardiac Risk in the Young and The British Heart Foundation.