FORMER winners GH Podiatry reclaimed their crown in a thrilling finale to the Battens Solicitors charity tournament on Weymouth sands.

They battled it out with defending champions Team NewBody to take the honours in an 18-12 victory at the eighth annual extravaganza.

Organisers from Battens expect to have raised record proceeds this year, well in excess of £1,037 raised last year. This year’s beneficiary, the Friends of Wyvern School will use the funds towards playground equipment that will provide exciting, challenging but safe play opportunities for all youngsters.

Some 32 teams from local companies and organisations hit the sands for the popular tournament. It is held as the annual curtain- raiser to the RAF Careers Weymouth Classic and this year forms part of the resort’s first Sport & Wellbeing Festival.

Cherise Luke-Bennett, one of the solicitors organising the competition for Battens, said: “The exciting final between 2013 winners GH Podiatry and 2014 champions Team NewBody was a fitting finish to our best tournament yet. We hope to have raised a record amount for our beneficiary, the Friends of Wyvern School.

“Congratulations to GH Podiatry, who were very keen to get their hands on the trophy after losing out last year.” She added: “Thanks go to all of those who took part and supported the tournament.

“They include Bennett’s on the Waterfront for the catering and a very generous donation, Aura for the bar and a donation and Wessex FM for their roadshow.

“Thanks also to the Weymouth Ukuleleans who provided half-time entertainment, as well as the RAF, Weymouth Volleyball Club and Weymouth and Portland Borough Council.”

Teams included Weymouth Family Church, Agincare, Weymouth Lifeboats, ASM, Albert Goodman, Spirare, New Look, Dorset Echo, GJ Owens, Adventures4All, Stratton Village Hall, RAF, Pengillys, Redlands Community Sports Hub, Weymouth and Portland Borough Council, Dorset County Council and Parker’s estate agents.

Team Stratton beat BPL Purple Cobras to claim the honours in the runners-up final.

John Cropp of Team Stratton was crowned the most outstanding player while Ben Hunter of Weymouth Family Church was also noted for his excellent play.