Gearing up for Sophie

May 1 2008 by Catherine Evans, Rhymney Valley Express

RUGBY fans in the Rhymney Valley will be making their way to New Tredegar this weekend in memory of a special youngster.

The second Sophie’s Sevens rugby tournament and fun day will take place at the Grove Park on Sunday (May 4)

Former White Rose Primary School pupil Sophie Pearson, of Thomas Street, New Tredegar, died in 2006 after being diagnosed with dilated cardiomyopathy.

Since the schoolgirl passed away, thousands of pounds have been raised by Sophie’s family and the community through the Sophie Pearson Community Fund.

The fund was set up to benefit the Children’s Heart Unit of Wales, based at the University Hospital of Wales in Cardiff. Sophie spent time at the unit as a patient during treatment for her illness.

Teams from all over the borough are due to take part in the sevens tournament and enjoy lots of family entertainment afterwards.

Included at the event, which begins at 1pm, will be a duck race, a coconut stand, face-painting, a barbecue and refreshments.

Entry to the event will cost £1 for adults and 50p for children and OAPs. All the money raised will go towards the Sophie Pearson Community Fund.