On Saturday the 16th of January the Rugby community came together to celebrate the life of Lily Partridge a founding member of Exonian Ladies. The aim of the day was not only to celebrate this vibrant and brilliant rugby player, but to also raise money for her three chosen charities; Devon Air Ambulance, Shaldon Wild Life Trust and Royal Devon & Exeter ICU.

At the beginning of the journey we hoped to raise £5,000, but even this seemed like a big ask, as the donations started to come thick and fast the magnitude of the event became apparent. With astonishing donations from Coldplay, Premiership rugby teams, local businesses, friends and family the expectation of the day grew and grew.

As the day started to come together, Judi Spiers kindly offered her time to auction off the larger lots; with the Second Team Captain Tim Taylor stepping in at last minute (sporting some rather dapper yellow chinos and tweed jacket) to start the early section of the auction. Topsham Winger Edward Powell then stepped in to continue the first half of the Auction.

The lots started well, but as the night continued the willingness of the bidders was incredible, with lots such as a signed Exeter Chiefs shirt which made £240, a Helen Cole paining making £300 and four 6 Nation Tickets (Eng Vs Wales) reaching just over £800. The star of the night was the signed Coldplay Guitar which made a whopping £5000! The grand total made came to just over £20,000!

The night was full of surprises, but the generosity of not only the members of Topsham Rugby club but the wider community can only be classed as overwhelming! The night could not have happened and most certainly would not have been such a success without all of the support and donations which were received.

There are many people to thank for making the day run so smoothly. Firstly, to both Exonian Ladies and Newton Abbot Ladies Barbarians for such a sporting game of rugby. To all those who so kindly donated auction lots, raffle prizes and through JustGiving. To everyone who attended the day, supported the raffle and auction. Finally, to all those who worked behind the scenes to organise such a large event, especially Jeff, Liz and Lauren Partridge, Anne-Marie McIntyre, Sophie Kukor, Katie Lunnon, Sue & Dave Tanner (food & bar!), Tim Taylor, Edward Powell, Jackie, Mike & Gemma Heaven and Judi Spiers.

If you would like to donate please visit before Tuesday, 8th February:
http://crowdfunding.justgiving.com/LHP

Thank you for your support!