RUGBY enthusiasts put their best foot forward to raise money for a local good cause despite freezing weather conditions.

A total of £3,000 was raised following the second annual 'Men's Rugby Walk' in aid of Weldmar Hospicecare.

Weldmar Hospicecare provides end of life care for people living in Dorset who are in need specialist support.

The chilly weather did little to deter the 43 men who took part in the sponsored walk, which started at Dorchester Rugby Club and finished at Weymouth Rugby Club, a distance of more than seven miles.

Alaine Harman, Weldmar’s Community Events Fundraiser, organised the event.

She said “The men battled with the wind against their faces most of the way - but were then rewarded with a delicious pasty and a pint or soft drink at Weymouth Rugby Club. Our walkers were of all ages, and many were from family groups; fathers with their sons, and grandsons. We also had lots of friend groups – and even a few walkers joined by their four legged friends! Edward and Oliver raced to the end to beat their dads to the finish line, and were the first to collect their medals, in around 1 hour 45 minutes”.

This is the second time Weldmar Hospicecare had held the event, alongside both rugby clubs.

Alaine said “We are very grateful to everyone who took part, the volunteers who helped on the day, the event sponsors (The Self Storage Company), and both Dorchester and Weymoputh Rugby Clubs for their support. Together, they have helped to raise around £3,000. As a Dorset based charity, we very much rely on the support of our local community. The money they have raised will help us to continue to provide our Outstanding care across Dorset, supporting our patients and their families where and when they need us most - in their homes, in a local hospital in our hospice, or over the phone”.

Weldmar have a wide range of events coming up throughout the rest of 2018 – and all of the details can be found on their website at www.weld-hospice.org.uk/events or by calling Fundraising on 01305 261800.