The Rugby League has pledged its patronage to Wooden Spoon and the Charity can now boast that it is supported by rugby across both codes. Rugby legends John Bentley and Tony Smith were on hand to make the announcement. John, who excelled in both codes of rugby and Tony, the England Rugby League coach, took time out to lend Spoon their support at last year's launch.

John, a long time supporter of Spoon and Honorary President of the Yorkshire Region, explained, “This is a real win for Spoon, it is the first national charity to truly represent all factions of rugby - and I hope that League supporters will get as involved fundraising for Spoon as Union fans have! Spoon does amazing work and as a supporter myself, I am thrilled that the Rugby League is now involved with such a great cause.”

The Rugby Football League is going to run a pilot Spoon Community Rugby project using Rugby League to help with violence and anti-social behaviour in some of the most deprived areas in the country. Spoon Programme Director, Sally Pettipher said, "Spoon is honoured to be supported by both rugby codes. It is crucial that the Charity works with both codes because they reach different areas and different young people. There are a plethora of wonderful role models in league that can be a beacon to young people. In addition there are many of Spoon's supporters who are passionate league fans as well as union fans."

Both codes are professionals in their fields with strong community citizens in their areas of operation. The alliance between Rugby League and Spoon is long overdue and their shared professionalism that can be brought to bear on a range of issues affecting children and young people across the country will greatly improve the quality and prospect of their lives. Spoon is looking forward to a long and successful relationship with the Rugby League and its loyal supporters and teams.

Murrayfield Magic

Scotland’s Murrayfield Stadium was the venue for the Super League, Magic Weekend 2009. Making the most of the bank holiday weekend, 55,000 League fans flocked to the nation’s capital to watch seven games in two days.

This was the first time that the Magic Weekend had been staged in Scotland and Spoon chose this momentous occasion to officially welcome Rugby League as Patron to the Charity.

In presenting RFL’s CEO, Nigel Wood with an official certificate of patronage, Spoon’s own CEO Chris Gill was joined by Ambassadors Paul Sculthorpe and Gavin Hastings. Spoon’s Mascot, Woody presided over proceedings and entertained the crowd.

Chris Gill said: “Wooden Spoon is delighted to have Rugby League on board and the interest and support we have received from all areas of the game is a fantastic platform from which to drive the relationship forward.”

The presentation was featured on SKY Sports’ live coverage of the Magic Weekend which was watched by millions throughout the UK and around the world.

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