Players from East London Rugby Club paid tribute to former deputy chair and treasurer Deborah Bird and helped raise £350 for Saint Francis Hospice in their annual fundraising match played in her memory.

Deborah, known as Birdy, died in January 2022 aged 61 after a battle against cancer. She had been an integral part of the club at Memorial Park, West Ham, after joining in 2012.

East London play clubhouse friends Kings Cross Steelers every year for the Deborah Bird Memorial Trophy. On Saturday 5th October (Birdy's birthday) an East London XV beat a Steelers XV by 57-24. East London's ladies team the Vixens also switched their home league game against Thamesians to the Saturday so that they could be part of the celebration.

Both games began with a respectful period of applause from the players and supporters. Birdy's family and club co-chair Kat Salthouse laid a floral tribute and one of Birdy's club jackets on the pitch.

Deborah’s brother Richard Furlong said: “It was all about remembering Deborah in a way that did her proud. The game was played between the two teams she loved the most. The spirit on the pitch was great and the atmosphere off it was even better. I thank the East London and Kings Cross Steelers players, the East London committee for allowing this fixture to take place on an annual basis, and those who offered their time and services freely so that we could raise money for the hospice that provided end of life care."

Birdy's family presented trophies to both teams. Team captain for the day and East London RFC Co-Chair Nick Parrott said: "We would not be the club we are today without Birdy's drive, passion and enthusiasm. She was and always will be part of the East London family."