PLAYERS and staff from Newport Gwent Dragons swapped rugby for cricket at the weekend in a charity match against Usk Cricket Club.

The match, which was the second time the Dragons have played the Usk cricketers for charity, raised more than £2.000.

Eight players and three members of staff from the Dragons defeated the cricket club in the match, which saw about 500 spectators turn up.

Mike Kear, who is in his fifth year as Usk Cricket Club’s chairman, said it was a fantastic day for the club and the two charities.

“We had more spectators than last time. It was a great community event which was well-supported by the town and had a great atmosphere.

“Jason Tovey is a very very good batter, while Pat Leach is a great batter and bowler.”

The money raised went to St David’s Hospice and the Laurence-Moon-Bardet-Biedl Society, two charities particularly close to the cricket club’s heart.

Cricket club member Darron Jones’ daughter suffers from the genetic disorder, LMBB Syndrome, while St David’s Hospice was chosen after another member’s wife was treated for cancer.

Mr Kear said: “Both charities are very personal to us. We would love to thank the dragons for being part of it. We want to do it next year – and win!”