A beach rugby festival will be held this weekend in memory of a local rugby player who died from cancer.

Weymouth Beach Rugby Weekend #Quickfest will take place this Saturday and is being held in memory of Julian Quick, a former Weymouth and Portland rugby player, who died at the age of 28.

The event is returning for its second year and is being organised in conjunction with Weymouth and Portland RFC and aims to raise money for Weldmar Hospicecare, who helped care for Julian until his death last year.

Matt Smith, Director of Fundraising & Marketing at Weldmar said: “We are delighted that the Weymouth Beach Rugby Tournament is being held for a second year in memory of Julian Quick. This event doesn’t just celebrate the life of Julian but also his love of rugby.

“Each year, we support over 2,000 people in Dorset who are facing life limiting illnesses. Thanks to the continued support of events such as this, we are able to continue providing vital end of life care and support when people need us most. We truly are grateful for their support and encourage anyone to get involved in the event.”

Mark Graham, Chairman of Weymouth and Portland RFC said: "It’s a good way to raise money for Weldmar while giving something back to the town by organising another sporting event."

He added that the weather forecast is looking good and he is hoping for lots of visitors to come along to watch the rugby while enjoying a drink from the bar and listening to some live music.

Rugby teams from around the country are set to play in the festival, including teams from Exeter and Bristol.

The first match will be started by Julian's dad, Des Quick.

Mr Quick told the Echo: "I have to say I was so impressed by Weldmar who took care of Julian. They're just wonderful all the help you can give them is going to the right place as far as I'm concerned."

He added: "I think the festival is going to gradually get bigger and bigger. We have the most fantastic facility, Weymouth Beach, which is second to none. Hopefully it will continue to improve on previous years. There's a tremendous amount of work which goes on behind the scenes."

For more information about the beach rugby festival visit www.weymouthbeachrugby.com