Under-12 team's campaign to bring star striker back from Australia

A CAMPAIGN has been launched to help bring back an under-12 team's star striker all the way from Australia in time for the cup final.

Regan Waud, also known as Reggie, weighed in with six goals to help Hessle Sporting Spitfires reach the final of the Hull Sunday League's Myton Division final.

But, as it stands, he will not be around for the showdown with Hessle Rangers on Sunday, April 28.

After scoring a brace in his last league game for the Spitfires two weeks ago, Reggie, 11, joined his parents, Leanne and Dieter, to begin a new life in Perth.

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Now, a campaign has been launched to bring Reggie, who, with 16 goals under his belt, was the club's top scorer, back to Hull so he can take part in the final.

A Facebook page called Let's Bring Reggie Waud Home For The Cup Final has even been created, which already has more than 100 members.

David Busby, a family friend who is leading the campaign, said: "Reggie and his family would love to come back for the final but they just can't afford it.

"I have known the family for years and his family wanted a new start.

"Due to the visa situation and the job, the family had to leave quite quickly and couldn't stay around for the final."

Mr Busby hopes someone will be able to help fund Reggie's return.

He said: "I know Neil Hudgell (chairman of Hull KR), so I will ask to see if he can help in any way.

"We already have the Facebook page and we hope readers will be able to help.

"Even the coach of Hessle Rangers, the opposition in the final, is backing the campaign for Reggie to return."

Reggie spent 18 months with the Spitfires after moving from St Andrews.

Darren Watts, the Spitfire's coach, said: "Reggie has made a big contribution to what looks like a promising campaign for the Spitfires.

"As well as booking a place in the cup final, the lads are currently second in the league and are the only unbeaten side in the top division."

Mr Watts says Reggie's departure was an emotional time.

He said: "We are lucky to have such a talented bunch of lads here and the fact they are all so close on and off the pitch is a big plus but that did mean a few tears were shed when we said bye to Reg and his family.

"We really got to see the best of him in the past couple of months so its a massive shame he won't be around for the final."

Team mate and former Malet Lambert school friend, Harry Begbie, said he really hopes Reggie can return for the final.

He said: "It was very emotional when Reggie left and we'd all love to have him back for the final."

Reggie, who lived with his family in Bransholme, has already had a successful trial with Perth FC.

Such is his talent there is a clamour for Reggie's return.

Anyone wishing to contribute or back the campaign in any way should call Mr Busby on 07880 924131.