Marlow Mini Rugby Tournament 2008: The Harry Mills Memorial Cup

The 36th Annual Mini Rugby Tournament, the largest in the South of England, took place at Marlow RFC on Sunday 30th March. It was at this time last year that Harry played in his last Marlow tournament representing the u12s. It was a beautiful sunny day and over 2000 players from u7s to u12s and from 15 different clubs attended playing in leagues of 6 in both A and B competitions. The organisation was superb, the atmosphere wonderful, and some excellent rugby was played in a great spirit of friendly rivalry.Upon completion of the under 12s finals, guest of honour Phil Vickery, London Wasps star and England Captain, presented the winners, London Irish, with the Harry Mills Memorial Cup. It was a particularly poignant moment for one London Irish player as he himself had had meningitis as a 14 month old toddler. The cup was donated by Marlow Rugby Club as a tribute to Harry and will be played for every year. Richard then presented Phil Vickery with a pair of Harry’s socks which Phil promised to wear the next time he plays in a Barbarians team! Special thanks to Mike Simmonds of Marlow RFC for his involvement in organising the Cup and Phil Vickery as special guest. Thanks too to Rosie & Sophie who collected £191.63 on the day for Meningitis Research and to all the Marlow Minis, players, parents & coaches.




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The Maidenhead Advertiser article

The day's programme signed by Phil Vickery

Emma Shepherdson raises over £1,000 for Harry

Emma, mother to David, a friend of Harry’s from Spinfield School, is on a sponsored slim and has impressively succeeded in losing 3 stone for Harry and so far raising £1,075. This was a determined effort and Emma says “It's taken a long time, but I'm pleased I've finally reached my target and can start collecting for the Meningitis charity. It means a lot to me to do this in memory of Harry, who I will always remember for his adorable smile and endless enthusiasm which was infectious to everyone around him.I know that David (on the left next to Harry) will always treasure all the memories of his best friend. He still speaks of him every day. If you would like to support Emma, please email her at simon.shep@tiscali.co.uk

Wasps CoacHclass for Marlow Merlins, Triangular Fixture and Promotional Day

On Sunday 9th March, Drifters, Marlow and Wasps competed in a CoacHclass run by Wasps at the Royal Grammar School in memory of Harry. Afterwards all of the boys went to watch Wasps play Harlequins at Adams Park. A presentation of the cup was made to the winning team at the Wasps Harlequin game.