'Mad Butcher' thrills netball fundraiser

The audience of the Stratford High School Netball Touring Team fundraiser was entertained by the colourful life of Sir Peter Leitch, 'The Mad Butcher' on Saturday night.

Sir Peter spoke to the audience about his life including his work with charity groups and as an honorary ambassador of the Vodafone Warriors NZ Rugby League team.

I have to pick and choose carefully which events I speak at, but the girls here in Stratford were very passionate and persistent so how could I say no?

Sir Peter Leitch

Sir Peter says he likes to have a bit of fun when sharing his life stories with the audience, "adding in a little shock value".

Sir Peter was not the only familiar face on the stage on Saturday night, Morris West and his alter ego 'Mrs Brown' introduced the night and shared a few jokes of 'her' own.

Mrs Brown says she was a bit star struck when initially meeting Sir Peter and couldn't pass up the opportunity to meet him.

Mrs Brown is often invited along to MC events and says she was happy to offer her services for free on Saturday night in support of the netball touring team.

Denise Kay, netball co-ordinator at Stratford High School, says she was blown away by the support from the community. Saturday nights event, which was set up cabaret style with bar facilities and a live auction, raised over $11,000. "Sir Peter's generosity was truly amazing," says Denise adding that he donated a selection of signed Warriors memorabilia to be auctioned on the night.