Okehampton RFC set for an emotional Boxing Day clash

It has been an extremely difficult Christmas for everyone associated with Okehampton Rugby Club following the tragic loss of teenage rugby player Liam Shears in a road traffic collision. Another passenger, 17-year-old Alfie Abbott from Kingsteignton, also sadly died in the incident.

Okehampton’s player-coach Tom McGrattan dedicated the club’s recent 12-10 win over Tiverton to Liam and the club will remember the talented youngster in today’s traditional Boxing Day fixture, which will see the Men take on the Ladies.

As well as paying tribute to Liam, the Okes will remember teenager Alisha Osman, who also sadly lost her life in a traffic road accident earlier this year.

The men’s team will all be wearing wellies and all money raised today donated to the Yellow Wellies Foundation, a farm safety charity for young people in farming and a cause close to the heart of Alisha’s family.

Today’s game kicks-off at 2.30pm at the Showground.

The Christmas rugby schedule moves on to North Tawton Rugby Club on Saturday, who are hosting their festive fixture in memory of former player Gary Sizmur, a much-loved figure in the Moorland sporting community.