THERE was some fine rugby played when a memorial match was held at Crediton Rugby Club on Tuesday, December 27.

The match was held in memory of George May, a former club player, who died aged 18 years, following a road accident on the A377 near Lapford in 2006.

A memorial match has been held each year since then and was again organised by Gavin Best, George's best friend, and George's brother, Rob.

Taking part were the Old Crediton Colts 2003-2006, captained by Gavin, who had previously been coached by Peter May, George's father.

They competed against May's Marauder's, the team in which Peter May played, which was captained by Rob May, who was unable to play.

Before the start, a minute's silence was observed by the players and supporters, led by the referee, Andy Smith.

The teams were playing for the George May Memorial Trophy, which was donated by Gavin's parents, Karen and Mike Best.

This year, for the third time, it was the Old Crediton Colts, who won the game by 17-5.

Proceeds from a collection, raffle and donations on the day amounted to more than £1,300, which will go towards charities, Whizz-kidz and The Wallace and Gromit Grand Appeal for the Bristol Children's Hospital and the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, St Michael's Hospital, Bristol.

Mrs Sarah May, George's mother, said she would like to thank Gavin and his parents for helping to organise the match, and all the players who took part, as well as referee, Andy Smith.

She added: "I would also like to thank all those who came along on the day and supported the match and Crediton Rugby Club for allowing use of the facilities.

Also, I would like to thank Carol Herbert and her son Ben and Jo Jones and her daughter, Katie, for helping in the kitchen."

Mrs May said it was "brilliant" that all the players turn up, adding that they enjoy catching up with one another when they do.

With regard to the result, she added that if the Old Colts keep winning, May's Marauder's may have to resort to "dirty tactics" next year!

FOR FULL REPORT AND PICTURES SEE PAGE 18 ISSUE 892 JAN 6TH.

Alan Quick