Fantastic turn-out for Taione Vea benefit evening
The Tongan international prop has been forced to retire from rugby at the age of just 27 after suffering a career-ending injury in Newcastle’s Aviva Premiership opener against Sale Sharks.
On an emotional night at Kingston Park Stadium Tai took to the stage to thank the hundreds of supporters and staff members who had made the event a reality.
Team-mates made clear the high regard in which the former Wasps and London Welsh man is held, Josh Chisanga wowing the crowd with a personalised rap before the Falcons’ Pacific Islands contingent performed a specially-devised haka.
Front-row comrade Rob Vickers and forwards coach Micky Ward were among the many speakers on a night of entertainment and genuine warmth, while the auction and raffle raised valuable funds for a player North East rugby fans have quickly taken to their hearts.
It was an evening which once again emphasised the family ethos at Newcastle Falcons, and the club would like to thank every single person who supported the event in whatever way.
**RAFFLE WINNERS**
* Meal for two at Jolly on the Quay, Newcastle – *Green 96-100.*
* Golf four-ball at Matfen – *Pink 481-485.*
* Hospitality for two at Saracens v Newcastle Falcons – *White 71-75.*
* Four tickets for Corbridge point to point – *Green 1-5.*
* 24 pies from the New Zealand Pie Company – *White 161-165.*
* Magnum of champagne – *Yellow 11-15.*
* Case of six bottles of wine – *Orange 1-5.*
* Overnight stay at the Crab & Lobster – *Pink 341-345.*
* Signed England shirt – Yellow 406-410.
* Case of 12 bottles of claret wine – Yellow 251-255.
If you are the lucky winner of any of these prizes please email **amy.kirsopp@newcastle-falcons.co.uk** .
