Friday 2nd October 09

Charismatic Huddersfield Giants packman Eorl Crabtree is to launch his official RFL Testimonial with a Rugby League version of television’s blockbuster X Factor show.

Eorl, fellow Giants team-mates and players from rival Super League clubs will take to the stage in the RL Factor at Huddersfield Town Hall on Tuesday 1st December, the opening day of his year-long Testimonial in recognition of 10 years loyal and dedicated service to his hometown club.

The England International, with his trademark flowing blond hair, is currently Giants’ longest-serving player, confirming his passion for the club by recently signing a new contract through to the end of 2015.

Eorl explained: “The RL Factor is a unique opportunity for fans to sample the singing skills of players, comparing their vocal ability to their on-field talent.  The impressive surroundings of the Town Hall will enhance the sing-along competition as we aim to provide a value-for-money opening to the 12 months of celebrations.”

A competition for supporters will also be held, with budding songsters asked to contact David Howes on 07814-937642 or at david@howesetc.co.uk.

RL Factor tickets are priced £12.50 for all parts of the Town Hall and can be booked from 1st October, either in person or by telephone, from Huddersfield Tourist Information (01484-223200), Dewsbury Town Hall (01924-324501) or Holmfirth Tourist Information (01484-222444).

A dedicated Eorl Crabtree Testimonial website, featuring sections of a personal blog, event calendar, photograph gallery and merchandise sales, has been launched at www. eorlcrabtree.co.uk.

The biggest player in the UK game has made more than 220 appearances for his native club, approaching a half-century of tries, since signing professional forms in December 1999.

He made his England Test debut against France in Paris in June 2009, to add to nine appearances for England in the Federation Cup, touching down three times.

Eorl has achieved celebrity status through his flamboyant appearance on and off the field, plus being the nephew of the legendary wrestler Shirley Crabtree.

A three-man Testimonial Committee is steering the year-long celebrations, kicking off with a unique RL Factor show at Huddersfield Town Hall on Tuesday 1st December.

Chairman is Eorl’s first club coach, former Huddersfield and Hull FC star centre Brian Blacker, currently still serving the Giants in a vital backroom role.  Secretary-Treasurer is stalwart Giants supporter Stuart Greaves and completing the trio is fellow fan Michael Peckett, of Fell Promotions in New Hey Road, Huddersfield.

Brian explained: “We are delighted to volunteer our services to Eorl’s Testimonial both through more than eight months of planning and the 12 months of celebratory events

“Eorl epitomises a local lad made good!  He has graduated from a raw boned youngster to an International class forward, being proud to represent his hometown club from the depths of relegation to the current heights of the upper echelons of the Super League table, featuring in two Challenge Cup Finals on the way.

“His personality has shone through on the journey to success, maturing into one of the most effective rampaging and ball-playing forwards on the world stage.  Typical of the man has been his eagerness to commit himself to the Giants for effectively the rest of his playing career.

“Thus we look forward to the Huddersfield public and the Rugby League fraternity in general supporting Eorl’s events and fund raising initiatives throughout the 12 months of his RFL-approved Testimonial..”