The money, raised through a Charity Sporting Dinner Dance held at Gloucester Rugby Club’s impressive 1873 suite, was presented by pupils to the charity at the school. Held on 1st May, the Charity Sporting Dinner Dance was hosted by Cheltenham College in order to raise funds for both the school’s summer rugby tour to Argentina and Uruguay and for the Help for Heroes charity.

One highlight of the evening was the Auction of Promises which raised a stunning £8237 for the charity ‘Help for Heroes’. Cheltenham College has a proud military tradition, with a number of former pupils currently serving in Afghanistan. One notable example is Old Cheltonian Will Dixon who left College in 2002 and who has recently returned from Afghanistan after losing a leg in a road side attack. A former member of the Rugby 1st XV at College, Will toured with the school to South Africa in 2002 so this is a fitting tribute to both him and the charity which has helped him rebuild his life after such a devastating injury.

Lieutenant Colonel Robert Dixon OBE, father of Will and County Colonel of The Rifles, received the cheque on behalf of Help for Heroes.

Anne Norman, Gloucestershire Co-ordinator for Help for Heroes commented:” I can’t believe how much money was raised, it really will make such a difference to the lives of injured soldiers. The funds will be used immediately and will enable us to offer even more help and support to brave men and women injured in combat.”

Proud of its military tradition and service throughout the years, Cheltenham College is one of only two schools in the country (Eton College being the second) to have received royal colours from Princess Royal in 2002 for its outstanding contribution to the Services.

Lieutenant Colonel Robert Dixon OBE, Jack Dymoke (pupil), Harry Jaggs, (pupil and Captain of 1st XV), Matt Coley, Master in Charge of Rugby, Anne Norman, Gloucestershire Co-ordinator for 'Help for Heroes' and Nick Knudsen, pupil and Head Boy from September!