Boxing Day charity match raises more than £9,300 for local hospices

Bideford Rugby Club played host to a memorable Boxing Day fixture as two teams came together with a shared purpose: raising funds and awareness for Children’s Hospice South West and North Devon Hospice.

The festive encounter delivered both on and off the pitch, generating £4,660.50 for each charity — a combined total of £9,321 — while providing an afternoon of high-quality, entertaining rugby.

The event was strongly backed in the build-up, with endorsements from World Cup winners and local celebrities helping to generate national interest and community support. Although the ground was quiet early on, crowds soon gathered as warm-ups began, and by kick-off the atmosphere around the club was electric.

Bideford fielded a side largely made up of Quins players, supported by students and returning first-team members looking to regain fitness or valuable match time following injury. Their opponents, representing the hospices, featured an impressive lineup including former club captains, county players, and a number of ex-professionals — among them nearly 14 former Exeter Chiefs captains.

The North Devon Hospice team set the tone in the first half, attacking confidently from all areas of the pitch. Veteran flanker Mills produced one of the standout moments of the match, sprinting down the wing to score under the posts and proving that pace does not fade with age.

Bideford found themselves under sustained pressure as the Nash brothers dominated the midfield, with Noah Nash joined by Matt Coles and Mike Smith in crossing the try line. At the interval, Bideford’s only return was a solitary penalty.

Changes at half-time brought renewed momentum for the hosts, with players boasting Chiefs experience helping to stabilise the side. Charlie Stevenson added speed and energy, while Mark Schofield’s leadership helped to bring greater composure. Stevenson and Short both scored for Bideford in the second half, with Reece Pearn converting both tries.

The Hospice side continued to threaten, adding further scores through Harvey Brown and Matt Coles to round off an entertaining contest.

Beyond the action on the field, the day featured generous donations, auction prizes and a large raffle, all contributing to the event’s success. Organisers praised the efforts of volunteers and the strong turnout from the local community.

With significant funds raised and spirits high, the Boxing Day match once again highlighted the power of rugby to bring people together in support of vital local causes — with plans already in place to continue fundraising efforts into the New Year.