WELLINGTON are to play Cullompton in a veterans rugby memorial match for Rivers Barry in Devon today (Sunday, 3pm).

It had been hoped to play the game towards the end of last season for Rivers who was president of Cullompton RFC and died suddenly towards the end of October at the age of 66. Rivers, who lived at Blockhouse Farm, Nynehead, was a well-known figure around Wellington.

He was a keen sportsman and enjoyed his cricket at Nynehead where he was chairman for many years during which he played a major part in helping the club acquire its ground and build a new pavilion.

In the winter Rivers played rugby for Cullompton as a second row forward and helped the side to gain a number of promotions.

As well as his involvement with Cullompton RFC, he was involved with Wellington RFC and was a keen tennis player.

He was involved in all aspects of village life and for the last few years was a member of Nynehead Parish Council.

Meanwhile, Wellington coach Allyn Chetland has mixed feelings about the first team’s break from league rugby this weekend.

“It’s been a hectic start to the season - but also a pleasing one,” said Chetland. “Obviously, it’s nice to keep the momentum going when you’re playing well.

“If you said at the beginning of the season we would be fourth in the table in mid-October we would have taken it.

“Next weekend we have a difficult match away to Devonport Services who have also made a fine start to the season.”

Wellington 2nd XV, who have lost their opening three matches in Somerset One, have a rearranged match at home to Nailsea & Backwell 2nd XV this evening (7pm).

“It should attract a good crowd and, hopefully, the lads can get off the mark because Nailsea have lost their opening two league games.” added Chetland.

Wiveliscombe are also without first team rugby this weekend.