SPECIAL annual rugby match is set to return to Melksham, to raise money for the Royal British Legion.
Due to the success of the previous events, held in 2018 and 2019, military veterans will this year be competing against the Melksham ‘Stags’, a mixed ability team. The match, due to be held at the Oakfields stadium on the evening of Friday November 11th – Armistice Day – will once again be fund raising for the Royal British Legion.
The event kicks off at 7:30pm with a brief ceremonial event with the game following thereafter. A bar, food and raffle will also be available during the evening.
Trevor Paterson, Royal British Legion Melksham branch president and Poppy Appeal organiser, said, “With the events of the last two years weighing heavily on everyone, it is great to see this event back on the Melksham calendar.
“After the success of the previous events, we’re looking forward to seeing the veterans take on the Melksham ‘Stags’ team. As in previous years, we will be there to watch the match and will be holding a collection before, during and after the games.”
Rich Grieshaber, team manager of the Melksham Stags, said: “With mixed ability rugby, we can ensure that the spirit of rugby can be enjoyed by all ages and abilities, and we are overjoyed that this means that even injured and disabled veterans can take part in this year’s game.”
The bar opens at 6pm, and a collection will be held throughout the night, with further funds being raised from the food sales and the raffle, including prizes such as signed rugby shirts and meals at local pubs and restaurants. The raffle will be cash only, so please ensure that you bring plenty of change with you to donate to this worthwhile cause.
Event organisers are keen to receive more raffle prizes, so if you would like to donate a raffle prize please call Jona on 07723 559 873.
The weekend of remembrance concludes with the annual parade, forming up at Kingsbury Square on Sunday November 15th at 10.30am before marching to the memorial at Canon Square and then the service at St Michael’s Church.
The Royal British Legion supports serving and retired servicemen and woman and their families.
Visit www.britishlegion.org.uk
The Melksham ‘Stags’ are part of Melksham RFC, an official RFU-supported community rugby club, and are looking for new players for all teams, from U10s to the 1st XV, including the mixed ability team and ladies’ teams.
Visit www.melkshamrfc.co.uk or call 07926 929 858.
