A DARTS tournament held every year in memory of a Rugby schoolboy who died 15 years ago has raised over £2,000 for charity.
The Joe Spooner Darts Tournament – named after the 15-year-old Lawrence Sheriff pupil who died of Sudden Adult Death Syndrome (SADS) in 2005 – was held at the Workers Club in Oliver Street.
Janine Gough won out over 10 other entrants to claim the women’s trophy, beating Ella Coburn in the final.
Charlie Symons won the men’s tournament after beating Spencer Brown in the final – and went on to lift the Joe Spooner Trophy after beating Janine in the overall final.
A total of £2,177 was raised through entry fees, a raffle, an auction and a donation from the club.
Joe’s mum Tracey, who co-organises the event each year with his dad Stephen, said: “We are blessed to still have so much support from so many people, not least the venue.
“We would like to thank the Workers Club, tournament sponsors Bradley Electrical, players, chalkers, people who donated prizes and bid on auction items, and everyone who helped in so many ways.
“All money raised goes into Joe’s fund at SADS UK – an amazing charity which raises awareness of SADS and campaigns for defibrillators in schools to become law – allowing us to donate defibrillators into the community.”
Since Joe’s death, Tracey and Stephen have raised tens of thousands of pounds for the charity, donating defibrillators to schools, sports clubs and community venues.
Tracey added: “In June Joe would have been 30, and in July it will be 15 years since we lost him. It’s painful to think we will soon have been without him as long as we had the joy of having him.
“Everyone’s continued support is so very much appreciated. We couldn’t do it without you, and appreciate all you do to keep Joe’s memory alive.”
