Fans turn out in memory of Jono

Nov 19 2008 by Colin Paterson, Airdrie & Coatbridge Advertiser

OVER 300 people turned out to remember tragic rugby star Jono Laughran on Saturday.

The Trojan Fun Day at Langloan was a resounding success with more than £2500 raised for the Trojan Trust Fund which helps local kids pay for sports equipment.

The event was in memory of popular Waysiders/Drumpellier player Jono, who died in a car crash in May 2007.

His dad, Colin, told the Advertiser: “I thought the day went very well and was absolutely fantastic.

“I knew people would turn out for Jono.

“At the end of it, five wee girls came up to me and gave me a kiss to say thank you for what had been organised, which was really nice.

“Every child that came through the gate got a free toy and we gave away 145 in total.

“There was a burger van and a kebab van and a buffet and people insisted on making donations when they got their food which helped us raise a lot of money.”

An entertaining costume-themed rugby tournament was held and won by the wonderfully-named ‘pimps and prostitutes’.

Kids had the opportunity to enjoy a bouncy castle with a whole host of raffle prizes also on offer.

And people could relax for a couple of hours with a drink and watch Scotland’s international match with South Africa on the box.

Colin added: “I have to give special thanks to chef Ian Smith who cooked all of the food and did a great job.

“But I’d also like to thank everyone who came along to support the day and all who helped organise the event.”