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Close friends, Jon and Rob, are stepping up for The Rugby March this year in memory of Jon's Dad, Philip.

Jon and Rob have known each other since their school days and both love their rugby and fitness. They've passed their shared love of the game on to their lads who also play rugby together.

Jon says: "We said one thing we'd like to do more of this year is to go on some nice walks together and discover new places. Something that we know is having a positive effect on our health without it feeling like a chore.

"We are doing The Rugby March for my father Philip, who was diagnosed with advanced bowel cancer, two months into the coronavirus lockdown in 2020, and died in early January 2022 at the Hospice in Brentry, aged 71. Also, to show my appreciation for the first class care and support the Hospice staff gave him, and the immediate family. We were so grateful and speak highly of them often.

Jon and Philip

"He was a wonderful man, a true gentleman, the most devoted and loving father and grandfather anyone could have. One of life's finest. Dad too loved walking and rugby and would love that we're taking part in this event. We walked a lot together, especially in his last year, 2021. He spent many of his years at Ashton Gate Stadium – it was like his second home, as it is for me and my son. This is just so fitting."

The Rugby March takes place on Sunday 12 March, starting with a scenic six-mile sponsored walk from 11.30am that leads to a thrilling Bristol Bear's v Harlequins live match at Ashton Gate at 3pm.

Sign up for The Rugby March