A rugby match in memory of a Pembrokeshire rugby player who died earlier this year has raised a massive £36,500.

The match, held on August 25, was in honour of Marc Beasley, a dedicated player for Crymych Rugby Club who died on March 15 at the age of 37.

The memorial match took place at Parc Lloyd Thomas in Crymych, with 50 players in the Bois Beasley team, representing current and former club members, taking to the field.

They wore special blue shirts, symbolising Mr Beasley's time with the youth team. The match was played against the Bulls.

Carwyn Rees, one of the event's organisers, said: "Marc was a true pillar of our club—he was dedicated, passionate, and always had a smile on his face.

"He wasn’t just a rugby player; he was a friend to everyone, and his loss hit us all very hard."

The match was conceived following Mr Beasley's sudden passing.

Mr Rees said: "The club immediately knew we had to do something to honour him, and that’s how this match came together."

More than 750 people attended the event, which included a raffle and auction.

The proceeds will go towards the Marc Beasley Fund, initially set up to finance heart screenings for club players.

The fund will now extend this offer to the wider community.

Former Wales captain Ken Owens paid tribute to Mr Beasley in a video message shared on the club's Facebook account, calling him a "special person."

He said: "I had the pleasure and honour of playing with Marc many years ago when I was 11 years old in the Carmarthen school district.

"He was a top guy, so I hope you all had a great day remembering a very special person."

Mr Beasley's sister, Heulwen Beasley-Park, expressed her gratitude for the community's support.

She said: "A heartfelt thank you to everyone for your support on Sunday. It was a day to remember.

"Marc would have loved seeing all his friends and the community come together for such a great cause.

"It was wonderful to see so many of Marc's friends taking part in the game and the cycling and running events were also fantastic.

"Thank you to everyone for your generous contributions.

"It was encouraging to see the community so willing to give to such a worthy cause.

"We are grateful to everyone who helped organise the day.

"Marc would have been delighted with all the activities and sports. It meant so much to us as a family, and we’ll treasure the day forever."