Rugby tournament is set to raise funds for good cause

Kate Clarke suffers from enteric neuropathy, a digestive condition that can be life-threatening.

The tournament will take place on May 2 at Gosport and Fareham Rugby Club in a bid to raise awareness for Kate’s illness.

With 10 teams already signed up to play, Kate, 24 from Fareham is overwhelmed at the support received.

‘It means so much to me – having people help raise awareness about this rare illness will make a huge difference,’ she said.

The rugby 10s-style tournament will consist of local clubs competing against each other with all money raised going to P.O.R.T. (Pseudo Obstruction Research Trust).

‘I only found out about the work that P.O.R.T. does recently, so hopefully this tournament will raise some money to help them continue helping people like myself,’ said Kate.

Close friend Matthew Rogers who is helping organise the event said: ‘It’s fantastic to see so many local clubs coming together to play for such a great cause. It will be a great day out for all generations, not just players.

‘There will be loads going on and will be a really great occasion for everybody involved.’

The day event will start at 10am and run until 10.30pm with children’s activities, raffles and other activities raising money to fund research into the extremely rare condition.

Women’s and children’s taster sessions run by rugby coaches will be held at the rugby club on Dolphin Crescent, Gosport for those interested in the sport.

Teams entering the tournament will be required to make a minimum donation of £25 which will be collected upon registering at 9.30am.

To donate raffle prizes contact [email protected] and to donate directly to P.O.R.T. go to www.port-charity.org.uk/