A FUNDRAISER for Tavistock Hospital organised by the town’s rugby club surpassed expectation in just two days.

Players and coaches of Tavistock Rugby Club decided to raise funds for their local hospital by doing something they had control over during lockdown — their hairstyle!

Taking inspiration from other clubs raising funds for the NHS, the club wanted to be able to support the town and community closer to home so decided to either grow a mullet until the start of the season or shave their head.

A JustGiving page was set up last week and within two days had surpassed their £250 target with over £2,000 collected — the current total, as the Times went to press, stood just over £3,200.

Hammy Kerswill, Tavistock RFC player and coach, paid credit to everyone involved with this fundraiser: ‘With the hospital MIU having to close temporarily last year it seemed a perfect opportunity to give something back for treating many of our injuries over the seasons gone by. One of the players Leion Cole rang the hospital to let them know the club’s intentions and shortly after set up a JustGiving page.

‘The boys have found numerous ways to shave their heads or grow mullets.’

Hammy added: ‘We will be running a virtual pub quiz this Friday (April 10) for people to enjoy. Tune in to the Tavistock Rugby Club Facebook page at 7pm for a livestream of questions at 7.30pm. Play alone, against members of your household or against TRFC.’

Leion said: ‘The money raised will be split 50:50 between Tavistock Hospital MIU and the ward. As a team we would like to thank you all in advance for any donation received.’