SOMERSET was represented during a high-octane encounter at Rugby HQ – the Allianz Stadium in Twickenham.

The ground hosted a match between Finchley RFC and the Commons and Lords RUFC to raise money for the RFU Injured Players Foundation (IPF).

And Glastonbury & Somerton MP Sarah Dyke was among those representing the Commons and Lords at the match, which raised £15,000 for the cause.

It was the first time the women’s team from the Commons and Lords had played at the Allianz Stadium, and they were joined by several former players, including former Red Roses Alex Pilkington, Jane Coats, Jenny Watkinson, and Clare Purdy, as well as RFU senior vice president Deborah Griffin and Rugby World Cup winner and former England captain, Gill Burns.

Burns said: “I was honoured to be invited by the Commons and Lords’ team to play on the hallowed turf.

“I’ve never had the opportunity to play for England here because women weren’t allowed to when I was playing.

“I was lucky enough to referee and coach here but never played. Today I realised that ambition. It was like a dream come true for me.”

Ms Dyke enjoying her time on the hallowed turf at Twickenham

Lib Dem MP Ms Dyke said: “I was delighted to take part in the Commons and Lords annual charity rugby match at Twickenham against worthy opponents Finchley Rugby Club.

“While fantastic fun was had by all, the cause is a really serious one: raising money for the RFU Injured Players Foundation which supports players who are catastrophically injured.”

The IPF offers support including immediate help in hospital, access to the most appropriate medical care, and long-term emotional, practical, and financial assistance to players and their families for life, if needed, as well as funding vital research into injury prevention and improving injury management in rugby.

Find out more about the RFU Injured Players Foundation at RFUIPF.org.uk.