A GROUP of friends reunited in memory of their late friend for a fun competitive afternoon of cricket at Farnham Cricket Club

The day was organised in memory of the group’s dear friend and local boy Richard Blackhurst, who was tragically killed in a car accident shortly after his 18th birthday. Money raised from the day will be donated to the road safety charity, Brake.

The event, which was inspired by a childhood rivalry between Farnham and Rowledge Cricket Clubs, saw more than 100 people turn up, raising a total of just over £800. The sun came out, there was music, a barbecue and a crowd of old friends remembering and celebrating a very special cause and friend.

Farnham Cricket Old Boys won by 39 runs scoring 174 for nine with the Rowledge Old Boys scoring 135 all out. The group of friends hold annual fundraising events which have included a football match and a skydive.

Joe Fenton, community fundraiser at Brake, said: “Brake is extremely grateful to Richard’s friends and family for going to such lengths to support our work. Their efforts to raise awareness for the charity and the importance of road safety are inspiring and we really can’t thank them enough.

The money they have raised will allow Brake to continue our important work, supporting bereaved and injured road crash victims.”

Ed Nelson, a close friend of Rich’s and a key organiser for the day, said: “To remember Rich by bringing everyone who was close to him together is a wonderful way to raise money for the charity his parents chose.

“He is deeply missed and by doing this we are keeping his spirit alive. The two teams played remarkably well and it was brilliant to see the old Farnham v Rowledge cricket rivalry reignited. A massive thank you to everyone who came and to Farnham Cricket Club for hosting it. To see that many people turn up is a really excellent testament to Rich’s memory. I would also like to thank Sainsbury’s for donating prosecco to the winner of our half time game, James Gill and man of the match, Adam Elstow. Rich would have been incredibly proud.”

For more information or to donate go to www.justgiving.com/Ed-Nelson/.