What's on

A 100 Mile Walking Challenge involving 25 rugby clubs across the West of England area is taking place March 2 – 4.

Tony Perfect - a former Nailsea & Backwell rugby player - plans to start his walk at Thornbury Rugby Club on Thursday, March 2, completing the walk in time for Nailsea & Backwell’s usual Saturday fixture.

Taking in clubs from Keynsham to Ashton Gate, and Clevedon to Kingswood, he will be raising money for local charity Sporting Family Change, in memory of his friend Cheryl Reed from Bristol, who died from cancer last year.

He said: “I coached Cheryl and Ian’s son, Joe, and the couple were hugely supporting to our club. Cheryl was a great supporter of Sporting Family Change too, so I wanted to do something in her memory.”

Sporting Family Change, based in the Somer Valley, uses sport to empower, inspire, and motivate people into making positive long-term lifestyle changes. The charity was set up in 2014 by Jimmy Deane, a former Bath rugby player, and has grown significantly over the past two years, working with individuals and families disproportionately affected by the impact of Covid-19.

Jimmy, who will be joining Tony for part of the walking challenge, said: “We are really grateful to Tony. As a charity we are privileged to support children, young people and adults. Despite our name, it’s really not about being super sporty or super fit – it’s about bringing people together from all walks of life, having fun, enjoying activities and meeting new people.”

Fundraising has currently reached just over £1,000 but they are hoping to raise significant funds this week. To contribute, click below.

Find out more at https://sportingfamilychange.co.uk/

localgiving.org/appeal/TonyWalks/