A FUNDRAISING darts match took place in honour of a Radcliffe sporting legend.

Jim Rhodes had organised a charity event at Little Lever Working Men’s Club in aid of St Ann's Hospice in Little Hulton — a charity he had raised more than £70,000 for.

After the Radcliffe Athletics Club hero sadly died earlier this month, friends rallied round to ensure his fundraising event still went ahead.

Mr Rhodes, who died aged 78, dedicated years of his life to raising more than £100,000 for charity.

The numerous charity races and darts events he organised were often in memory of his late wife, Joan.

A committee of darts players and supporters has pledged to continue his work into the future, raising money twice yearly in aid of St Ann's.

Marie McKinney, a friend of Mr Rhodes and a member of the fundraising committee, said: "I think the event was a tremendous legacy to Jim.

"He worked hard — tirelessly — for years to raise money for good causes, and particularly for the hospice.

"To let that work finish with Jim's passing just does not seem right.

"Rather than let it fall by the wayside, the committee and other friends thought it would be a good idea to continue raising money for St Ann's."

The event was held at the Working Men’s Club in Victory Road, on Friday, February 15, and £271 was raised on the night.

The Alf Brocklehurst Triples Memorial Trophy was won by Paul Bennet, John Worthington, and Ben Davenport.

The Joan Rhodes Triples Memorial Trophy was won by Julie Broxton, Deanne Dolan, and Denise Boardman.

Men's high score winner was Luke Bowden and Ladies high score winner was Abbie Brocklehurst.

Brian McCallister gave a short speech at the gathering, thanking everyone for attending and for helping to raise money, and announcing that the group would continue to support the hospice.

A new trophy is also being made in Mr Rhodes' memory — the Jim Rhodes Memorial Trophy.

Mr Rhodes died at his home in Radcliffe and is survived by his sons Jimmy, Steven and Darren, daughter-in-law Janet, grandchildren David and Stephanie and great-grandchildren Olivia, Isabella, Jessica and Alex.