The competition, which will celebrate its centenary next year, always holds the final at Molineux Stadium and over £10,000 was raised last night when entry money, raffle takings and donations were taken into account.
It all helped towards 'One last push' towards a target of £250,000 to be raised for the Sedgley based Beacon Centre for the Blind, which has been the sole recipient of fundraising from the JW Hunt committee during its 99 year history.
Kym Hewins from one of the benefactors of the JW Hunt Cup, The Richardsons Foundation with members of the commitee
Kym Hewins from one of the benefactors of the JW Hunt Cup, The Richardsons Foundation with members of the commitee
John Richards, who wore the old gold and black shirt 385 times, scoring 144 goals, was made a freeman of Wolverhampton in February and said The Molineux would always be 'the heartbeat' of the city and the fans who turn up for games and help make the 'magic' happen.
John Richards and his wife Pam (Far Left) with the winning Dudley Town team
John Richards and his wife Pam (Far Left) with the winning Dudley Town team
He said: "It was a pleasure to be here tonight and I thank the JW Hunt committee for the invitation. This a wonderful competition which does so much to raise money for a great cause and gives the finalists a night they will never forget."
Wolves legend John Richards in the 1970s kit
John Richards in his playing days with Wolves. He attended the final of the JW Hunt Cup on Thursday.
Dudley Town beat Cradley Town 3-0 on the night but RIchards said even the losing team would go home with memories to cherish of playing at Molineux.
He said: "It has changed down the years in terms of how it looks but to me it will always be the Molineux, the heartbeat of a city I have come to love and that is down to the fans because without them there probably wouldn't be professional football.
"I remember the trial game on the very Molineux pitch which was played on tonight, it launched my career and a wonderful relationship with the club, the fans and the people of the city."
Sponsors of the competition made up part of the 1,000 plus crowd and the wife of John Gough of main sponsors Bilston based the Gough Group presented the trophy to winning captain Alex Perry.
Sylvia Enefer from the JW Hunt Cup committee said: "It was a super turnout and a great night and it was lovely to see so many people from the football community, including John Richards of course, and also to meet people who support us in our fundraising efforts.
"This showcase final is a big part of the money we raise each year and we thank the Wolves for generously letting us use Molineux to continue to host the final. with the 100th anniversary and a big party planned next year."