Merton RFC have completed a 26-mile hike in support of a player at a fellow club who tragically died from coronavirus. 

Thirteen players from Merton RFC spent an entire day hiking through Surrey Hills- visiting Box Hill, Leith Hill and Holmbury Hill on June 27.

The hike was part of a 10,000-mile challenge set up by welsh club, Pontarddulais RFC.

The event which saw the two clubs unite 'virtually' raised more than £2000 in aid of St John's Ambulance.

Hike leader Ian Lambert said “I was sorry to hear of Pontarddulais’s loss.

"Grassroots rugby clubs stick together and the guys were happy to do their bit to raise money for such an important cause.”

Wimbledon Times:

Additionally, club members funded a special run of rainbow training shirts to raise a further £457.20 for the NHS.

Despite rugby being postponed for the foreseeable future, it’s been a busy summer for the Morden Rec based outfit, who are in the process of refurbishing their clubhouse ahead of its grand reopening.

With their home base restored, Merton hopes to be in a strong position to mount a successful campaign when they return to the pitch.

Club Chairman Jack Caniff said: “The lack of matches has had a significant impact on our ability to retain members.

"Any guidelines that the RFU impose, whether through law changes or administrative, will be sure to have an impact on us.

"We hope that, as restrictions ease, we’ll be able to get back on the pitch and introduce some new players to this fantastic game.”

To join the club, visit at www.mertonrugby.org