A SPECIAL 'first match dinner' was held at Okehampton Rugby Club — part of the ongoing celebrations to mark the club's 125th birthday.

The meal was attended by special guest and former Bath and England rugby player Gareth Chilcott, Cllr David Weekes, mayor of Okehampton, Denise Hodge, the Devon women and girls rugby co-ordinator and magician and member of Okehampton Rotary Club, David Wright.

More than 100 people attended the event, which was pronounced a huge success by organiser Paul Ankcorn.

Paul said: 'David gave his services for free, provided we made a collection for ShelterBox — we raised £560, and we also held an auction which was kindly performed by Gareth Chilcott, which raised £600 for club funds. It was an excellent night.'