ON A very wet and windy evening, on Wednesday, November 11, police officers and civilian staff from across Mid Devon, pulled on their rugby boots and took on Tiverton Rugby Football Club, in a rugby match in the aid of charity.

Rugby Against Domestic Abuse was the brain child of Police Community Support Officer Dion Howells stationed at Tiverton Police Station.

The match, which was supported by the Community Safety Partnership as part of their awareness programme for Domestic Abuse Awareness Week, which began on Monday, November 23, raised more than £750.

Around 200 spectators turned out, despite the weather and enjoyed the match which saw Tiverton RFC win 38-7.

Proceeds from the game and a charity auction, will go to Exeter Women's Aid, which provides support services in Mid Devon as well as Exeter and East Devon and for men as well as women. Julia Ryder, Community Safety Officer, said: "Women's Aid offers support to a wide range of people and offers advice and support in order to make their lives safer.

"Domestic Abuse cuts across all social boundaries and occurs in every community.

"By this type of event we want to let people know that it is not acceptable, it is a crime and there is support out there to those that need it."

The event was so successful and thoroughly enjoyed by all that it is intended it will become an annual event.

Crediton officers Paul Roberts, Luke Newman and Dave Pilling took part in the game, even though at least one of them had not stepped onto a rugby pitch since they were at school!

Crediton Police Sgt, Gareth Twigg, chair of the Creedy Local Action Group (LAG) said: "The LAG is supporting Domestic Abuse Awareness Week. It is important that support is readily available to those who need it."