AROUND a thousand people enjoyed a sun soaked carnival of rugby at a special fundraising event for Tony Barrow this afternoon.

Since the former Swinton and Oldham rugby league player was diagnosed with an aggressive form of cancer five weeks ago friends and family have rallied round to organise a number of events to help fund his treatment.

Teams including Tony's former team mates and ex professionals including Tommy Martyn and Shaun Briscoe lined up at Thatto Heath's ground.

A hugely popular figure across St Helens, Tony, who is a father of two, was given a guard of honour as he led out the teams.

A number of Saints players past and present mingled among the crowds including Tommy Makinson, Keiron Cunningham, Mose Masoe and Paul Wellens.