By Martin Morgan

Last updated at 13:10, Thursday, 08 October 2009

Ex-Great Britain, Leeds and Hull prop Lee Crooks will be special guest at a fund-raising sportsman’s dinner for popular Whitehaven forward Howard Hill’s testimonial.

The event will be held on Friday, October 23, at the town’s Marchon Club. And organisers are hoping for another great turn-out for the long-serving star.

“It’s been an excellent response to Howard’s testimonial so far,” said Des Byrne. “He’s such a popular player.

“He’s well-liked by everyone and people are showing their respect by supporting the events. On top of that there’s been some good entertainment. We aim to continue with that - and raise money.”

Blackpool comedian Greg Cook will also star and Craig Poskett will MC. Tickets cost £25 and the night includes a two-course meal.

The new club calendar for 2010, starring Haven players, will be launched on the night.

Meanwhile, Paul Ballard will not be returning to the Recre next season after turning down the club’s contract offer. He made a big impression on loan from Super League Celtic Crusaders last season, scoring seven tries in nine games after joining the club in May.

Coach Ged Stokes has no hard feelings over Ballard deciding to move on.

“He was very valuable to us in that he could play a number of roles,” Stokes said. “He was very good and enjoyed the environment.

“It’s just that he’s bought a house, has a mortgage and has to make some money. That’s pretty much it. We have to be very selective who we bring in.”

Ballard debuted for Haven on the wing and went on to fill in at full-back and centre.

But the club are reasonably well covered in those positions, with Craig Calvert and Ade Adebisi seemingly first-choice wingers, and Craig Benson at full-back.

With youngsters Stephen Fox and Reece Fox moving in to contention for centre/back-row roles next term and more potential signings in the pipeline, and the versatile Derry Eilbeck also vying for a place in the back division, Ballard was not seen as a top priority.

First published at 11:36, Thursday, 08 October 2009
Published by http://www.newsandstar.co.uk