PLAYERS and supporters at Ivybridge Rugby Club have raised nearly £3,000 for charity in honour of a local lad battling leukemia.

Fundraising centred around the home match against Newton Abbot in October, following which players volunteered to have their heads shaved or their legs waxed in front of an audience of club members and supporters.

The event was organised by 1st XV player Alex ’Reggie’ Hall and team mate Jordan Anderton. The two wanted to do something to show support for Reggie’s close friend Andy Hughes, who is undergoing treatment for leukaemia.

They set a target of £500, planning to give the money to the Teenage Cancer Trust, but donations on the night of £1509.92 ensured they easily beat it. And over the last month, online donations have continued to flood in, helping reach a final total of £2868.20.

The Teenage Cancer Trust also contacted the club via Twitter to let them know that a teenager had been inspired by the event, organising his own head shave to raise another £320 for the charity.

Reggie said: ’I wanted to do something practical to show my support for Andy, but I had no idea how much the members of the club would get behind the idea.

’From the players who braved the razor or the wax to the ladies who wielded them, everyone gave their time and support willingly. The sponsors dug deep and gave generously, both on the night and after the event, ensuring that we completely smashed our original target.

’Thank you to everyone who was involved; your help and participation was really valued. All the money raised will be used for young people who are living with cancer and ensure they have the help and support they need at a difficult time.’