VETERAN players from Upton Rugby Club will scrum down against a team of teachers from Hanley Castle High School in a charity encounter on Sunday, March 25.

The teams are facing off at Upton Rugby Club at 1pm to raise money for the Oncology department at Cheltenham Hospital.

Hanley teacher Martin McTernan said he had been overwhelmed by the staff's enthusiasm for the event, especially since some had not played rugby since they were at school themselves in some cases up to thirty years ago.

"We've got 17 of our own teachers to commit to this, which for a small school is a remarkable level of support," he said. "Everyone in the school from the headteacher to the youngest pupil is talking about the game and most seem to be coming to watch. We're really looking forward to it."

Maurice Bottomley, who is organising the veterans team, hopes their greater experience will prove telling.

"I know the teachers have been training very hard, and they may well be the fitter team," he said. "But whatever the outcome we're determined to enjoy the day and to ensure that we can raise as much money as possible for a deserving cause."

Crest Insurance have sponsored a trophy for the winners, and both teams are keen to make the match an annual event.

The sports pavilion bar will be open before and after the match, and curry will be on sale for anyone feeling a little peckish.

A collection will take place during the game, and a raffle will be held. Anyone who would like supply a raffle prize can take it to the school today (Friday) or to the match itself.