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Razor Ruddock looks sharp at Brierley Hill bash

Former footballer Neil 'Razor' Ruddock was his usual cheeky self as he entertained guests at a cricket club's end of season bash.

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Beacon Cricket Club invited the former Liverpool defender to speak at its Sportsman's Dinner at the Copthorne Hotel in Brierley Hill.

Razor was on top form, dishing the dirt on his former teammates and managers from throughout his 18-year playing career.

Club member, Nick Elwell, said: "Neil was filling us in on everything from the days of his playing career, both on and off the pitch.

"He was certainly his usual entertaining self.

"The best stories were about Jason McAteer, Razor's old Liverpool teammate. He wasn't the brightest. Some of the tales were a bit spicy."

Beacon Cricket Club, which plays its home games just outside Wombourne, off the Trysull Road, holds its Sportsman's Dinner annually to raise funds for the following season.

A total of 260 players, staff and their guests were treated to a three-course meal at this year's event on Thursday.

Previously the club has welcomed sporting icons Ron Atkinson, Paul Merson, Phil Tufnell and Merv Hughes to deliver the after-dinner speech.

Razor, who won one England cap in 1994, was joined this year by comedian Josh Daniels to provide the entertainment.

A silent auction of old football memorabilia also took place to help raise money for the club, which finished second in the Staffordshire Club Championship last season.

Nick added: "Razor turned up over an hour before the dinner started and he was happy to have pictures taken and to chat to people.

"He was very good with us all. It was a great event and really rounded off a successful season."

Razor retired from football in 2003. Since then he has appeared on TV shows such as I'm a Celebrity, Get me Out of Here! and Celebrity Big Brother.

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