Chinnor RFC Thame’s 1^st XV celebrated their final home game of the season last weekend and Oxford Hospitals Charity were honoured to be invited along to accept a cheque from the club.

The club began fundraising for the charity back in 2018 after the extremely sad and unexpected loss of their Head Physio Lauren Cyster. At just 26, Lauren had a short but courageous battle with cancer that shook the club.

In total, Chinnor were able to raise £3,549 across the 2022/23 campaign, with the funds going directly towards Oncology at the Churchill Hospital.

Nick Stainton, Chinnor RFC Thame Chairman, said: "We wanted to continue to honour Lauren's memory and give back to a cause close to our hearts, so we agreed last summer that Oxford Hospitals Charity would be our Club’s supported charity this season.

“This kicked off in August with our Lauren Cyster Megabowl Trophy fixture - a match dedicated to raising critical funds for the charity.

“Our fundraising efforts also continued throughout the season, with a small percentage of each ticket bought by members contributing in a big way to the total donation of more than £3,500.

“We thank everyone for their kindness and support throughout the season, with the money going directly to the Oncology Ward at the Churchill Hospital."

Lauren’s mum, Brenda attended the club’s pre-match lunch alongside club members from both teams, followed by a closely fought win for Chinnor against Darlington Mowden Park.

David Child, our Community Fundraising Manager, attended the event and said: “It was such a special day and I would like to thank the rugby club for their support of Oxford Hospitals Charity and for inviting me along to receive the cheque.

“Lauren was clearly a very special person and the amazing fundraising that the club has done in her honour will benefit oncology patients at the Churchill Hospital for many years to come.”