On 4th February I headed up to Manor Park RFC’s ground to watch a rugby match organized by Rachel, in memory of her husband, Gregg, who died in 2022. Gregg was a Police Inspector and a life-long rugby player, fan and member at Manor Park, and so it was fitting that the memorial match was between Manor Park and a West Midlands Police XV. It was a lovely touch to see Gregg and Rachel’s children, Millie and Ethan lead the sides out for kick off. Both teams were made up of friends, colleagues and team-mates of Gregg’s and it was a fitting tribute to Gregg that both sides fielded full teams with plenty of substitutes keen to get on the pitch and play their part.

The match was played in great spirit, with a close-fought first half finishing with the teams very evenly matched. The second half saw Manor Park, who possibly had the advantage of local knowledge when they played up the slope in the first half, gradually using both the slope and the wind to their advantage, against some tiring policemen, in the second half. Manor Park eased ahead, ending with a comfortable win. The score mattered little, as everyone enjoyed the afternoon, before the teams retired to the clubhouse accompanied by the sizeable crowd to enjoy an evening of good company, food, music and the odd drink, in memory of Gregg.

Rachel organised a great tribute to Gregg and the number of players, as well as those watching high-lighted the esteem Gregg was held in. The event also raised a significant sum of money, which was shared between three charities. A donation of £550 was made to Guy’s Gift.

Thank you Rachel, Millie and Ethan for holding a great event and fundraising for Guy’s Gift.