HUNDREDS of people took part in a gruelling 12-hour challenge to pull in the pounds for two good causes last weekend.

Kingsclere Rugby Club held a 12-hour touch rugby event between 9am and 9pm last Saturday to raise funds for Turner Syndrome Support Society (TSSS) and SOFT UK – two causes close to the hearts of members at the club.

The club, which is based at the Fieldgate Centre, in Kingsclere, held the fundraiser to raise money for the charities as a show of appreciation for the support that the charities have provided to members Robert Doble and Kristian Wells.

As well as a special children’s session in the afternoon, people attending on the day got the chance to win a host of prizes including a signed London Irish shirt and 18 holes at Sandford Springs Golf Club, during a raffle and silent auction. A barbecue and hog roast was provided for those working up an appetite.

Robert and his wife Samantha lost their son William in March when he was born at just 22 weeks old and the couple, who also have a 18-month-old daughter Jessica, were told that William had Patau’s Syndrome.

Patau’s syndrome is a chromosome disorder, which can result in severe physical and mental impairment.

Robert, who is 26, told The Gazette that SOFT UK helped the family learn more about the condition. Kristian Wells and wife Kimberley found out their daughter Lily-Mae had Turner Syndrome at their 12-week scan and were helped by TSSS with support and information.

Kimberley said: “Every four years Lily-Mae has her heart and kidneys checked and at the moment she needs much more educational support. We have met quite a few parents through the charity.”