Cheshire-based event management specialist, Assured Events, has played a key role in helping Sale Sharks rugby star, Steve Hanley, kick off his testimonial year after organising the official launch event at Edgeley Park.
The Cheadle company played a key role in organising an event which saw over 300 fans descend on Edgeley Park to enjoy a drinks reception and Question and Answers session with Sale stars past and present including Charlie Hodgson, Mark Cueto and Steve Diamond ahead of the launch of 104 blue and whiteballoons; one for each of the tries scored by the popular Cumbrian pace-ace during his Sale Sharks career.
Karl Perry, Managing Director at Assured Events, comments: “We wanted to hold the launch at Edgeley Park and needed a focal point which although relevant, wouldn’t steal the thunder of the various other events we have planned for the year.
“Steve liked the idea of the balloon launch and with a first prize of two tickets to take part in a September Clay-Pigeon Shoot on offer to the person whose balloon travels the furthest and is returned to Edgeley Park, I’m sure quite a few people will keep their eyes peeled around the region.&rdquo
Nicknamed ‘Stan, Steve has featured in 191 games for Sale Sharks, racking up 520 points in the process. Now, as his eagerly awaited testimonial season begins, the pace-ace has recruited the help of professionals from various sectors to help ensure that the year runs smoothly and that funds can be raised for two very worthy causes along the way.
Steve explains: “Much as it’s great for me to have a testimonial season, it’s also important that my two designated charities; The Wooden Spoon and St Anne’s Hospice, benefit from any activity as well.
“For that to happen, we need a number of professional people from various organisations to get involved and I’m delighted to have Karl and the whole team at Assured Events working with me as we look to make a success of the campaign.”
With other future events set to include a Celebrity Golf Day at Mere Golf & Country Club on 28th July, a Ladies Night at Edgeley Park on 29th October and a Gala Dinner at Manchester’s Palace Hotel next February, the year isalready shaping up well. Karl concludes: “Everyone at Assured Events is proud to be associated with Steve in what promises to be a momentous twelve months and we are looking forward to making it a year to remember for him and everyone involved.”
