A MEMBER of Crediton RFC Ladies team who is raising funds to take part in an England Deaf Rugby Union (EDRU) Women’s Squad tour to South Africa in May this year has received a financial boost, the sum of £230, from the Unity Lodge of Mark Master Masons.

Sophie Lyon has been playing rugby since she was 16, starting with Crediton RFC Under 18’s team and now for the ladies’ team.

She was also in the Exeter Chiefs Women’s Academy at Exeter College for two years.

Sophie explained: "I have been volunteering every week for the past couple of seasons, helping to coach the Under 13 girls’ team at Crediton which is an incredibly rewarding role, I hope to inspire and be a role model for the young girls who are a part of this squad.

"I have been hard of hearing for a few years now, and in October 2017 I got my first hearing aid. I didn’t realise the amount that I had missed until I received the hearing aid!

"Rugby is a sport which I have been passionate about for years and to have the opportunity to be involved with the England Deaf Rugby Union Women’s squad is amazing, and I feel extremely lucky.

"EDRU is planning a tour to South Africa in May, and I am really proud that I have qualified to be involved in the tour.

"The tour will consist of a three-part test for the men’s team and a planned international game for the EDRU women.

“This tour is partially self-funded, therefore I am asking for any kind donations to help me get to South Africa.

"I will be planning other fundraising events in the run up to the tour."

Sophie added: "Any donation is very appreciated by myself and the whole of EDRU as we aim to promote silent rugby."

To donate, visit the fundraising page: https://www.gofundme.com/england-deaf-rugby-tour .

Alternatively, donations can be left at the "Crediton Courier" offices for the attention of Sophie Lyon.

The members of the Unity Lodge of Mark Master Masons said that the donation was the proceeds of their raffle held at a recent lodge meeting.

Sophie explained: "They passed on their congratulations and said they hoped I have a great tour of South Africa.

"They added that they would be interested in hearing how the tour went afterwards."

The presentation was made to Sophie at Crediton Rugby Club.