BIRKENSHAW Bluedogs' gala will go ahead as planned on Saturday – and will be in honour of Max Blakeley.
The 32-year-old died playing for the rugby league club in a Yorkshire Men's League game at Heworth last weekend.
Now the Bluedogs want to pay tribute to him and have set up a Masters match at their East Bierley ground between Birkenshaw and Cleckheaton Rugby Union Club, who Max also played for.
That will be part of a series of other games already arranged featuring all age groups, when Max's memory will be honoured.
Bluedogs chairman Adam Lincoln said: "We are all incredibly shocked and saddened at the loss of our friend and team-mate.
"However, we strongly believe that Saturday's event should take place in Max's honour.
"Max died playing a game he loved, and we believe that he would want the day to go ahead. Coming together on Saturday, as a club and a community, will be a wonderful way to say his name, honour his memory and continue to support all those affected by this tragedy."
The gala starts at 10am, with the Masters game kicking off at approximately 2pm, followed by the Yorkshire Men's League fixture at 2.30pm between the Bluedogs and Dewsbury Celtic.
Proceeds from the day will be donated to either Max’s family or a charity of their choice.
A JustGiving site has also been set up to raise funds for Max's family by the RFL Benevolent Fund.
Visit justgiving.com/fundraising/max-blakeley
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