Local rugby heroes, including an Ex-Salford Academy player, are aiming to raise £10,000 through a series of charity matches for a leading cancer charity, after a player's wife was diagnosed with terminal cancer.

Nick Ryan, who now runs Manchester based The City Recruiter, has announced the initial release of 600 tickets for its inaugural Rugby Showdown on 29th September, which will raise vital funds for The Christie hospital.

Playing as part of newly created Manchester Select, his team will take on GB Police Rugby team who recently returned from a tour of Australia.Taking place at the renowned Etihad complex in the heart of Manchester City FC territory, the jampacked day will kick off with a women's match at 12pm where the Keighley Cougars will size up against GB Police’ women, followed by the men's game at 2pm.The City Recruiter boss and Ex-Salford Academy star, Nick Ryan, said he wanted to hold the event to show support for The Christie charity and the work they do to help those battling cancer.

“The charity is instrumental in helping people in their time of need, including investing in services such as a crucial cancer care, information centre, wig fitting, art room and complementary therapy to name a few,”

Nick said.

“These charity matches are just one way we can raise funds for the incredible work they do, while bringing everyone together for two entertaining games of rugby.”

The crowd will be able to purchase food and drinks on the day, as well as tickets to a high-end raffle- with prizes including hospitality boxes at Wembley and Anfield - which will be presented from 3.30pm.


Manchester Select players, including staff from The City Recruiter and some of Nick’s former teammates, have been busy perfecting their passes, scrums and game tactics ahead of the event, funds raised from which, will be going to The Christie.


For fellow Manchester Select player and rugby veteran, Chris Bamber, the chosen charity is close to his heart following his wife's recent terminal cancer diagnosis.


Mr Bamber said:

“About 50% of people at some point in their lives will get cancer, and The Christies will treat a lot of them, especially those from the area.“So, there are very few people whose lives they won't touch, and the more funds that they can put towards looking after people and working on curing these cancers, the better. Because there's still a lot of them that are obviously incurable.“My wife has terminal cancer, which of course is a difficult thing to comprehend, but we’re staying strong as a family.“The Showdown is raising money for such a fantastic cause and will allow us to reunite on the field again.”

Back rower, Chris, will be a valuable asset to the Manchester Select team, along with Nick, who started playing Rugby when he was 10 years old.


After being forced to stop due to an injury, he said it has been a fun journey to get back on the field.

"At the moment I’m focusing on increasing my cardio for the match, as well as getting the team together for some tactical practice,”

he said.

“I can’t wait to get out on the field again for a great day of competition and more importantly, awareness for The Christie. That’s the main goal of this, to raise as much money as possible, which is why The City Recruiter are passionate about the cause.“I would like to thank everyone involved and I’m hopeful it will be a huge success.”

The City Recruiter, which is one of the main event sponsors, has made a name for itself in the North-West for working with some of the regions leading law firms including Barings Law and Veritas Solicitors.


With strong established partnerships in various sectors, the company is continuing to grow its team of expert recruiters with the aim to disrupt the global marketplace.


Adult tickets for the games can be purchased for £5, with £2 tickets available for children via the following link: https://shorturl.at/IMJ8e

Donations can be made on the day via card and through JustGiving, which can be accessed through the QR code below or via the following link: https://shorturl.at/ocU5d


All donations will go directly to The Christie Charity.

(L-R) Manchester Select player Chris Bamber and The City Recruiter Director Nick Ryan