WESTCLIFF Rugby Club will host what is set to be the biggest ever ALF 10s on Saturday.

The tournament is the flagship event for the Aaron Lewis Foundation (ALF), a charity which was set up in memory of Lieutenant Aaron Lewis.

The Rochford man and former Westcliff player died while serving his country in Afghanistan in December 2008, just 11 days after his 26th birthday.

And the tournament held in his memory continues to thrive with 16 teams and more than 2,000 guests expected to attend the Gables this weekend, much to the delight of Jonathan Fozard, one of the organisers.

“The tournament has grown year on year since its inception in 2009 when four teams competed and it has been great to see,” said Fozard.

“This year we’re expecting it to be bigger and better than ever with 16 teams competing, a number of which will camp out on the WRFC fields over the weekend”

“We expect footfall to exceed 2,000 so we advise people to get there early!

“But as always the focus will be on celebrating Aaron’s life in style and raising funds for the ALF which supports a variety of fantastic causes, including the provision of specialist equipment to disabled veterans.”

Among the sides competing this year are various Armed Forces teams, including Aaron’s Regiment – 29 Commando in Plymouth, last year’s champions the Phallus Warriors, a French touring side and the Aaron Lewis Foundation team.

The ALF team features a number of players from Westcliff Rugby Club - Aaron’s club - proudly flying the flag for the ALF.

In addition to the rugby on show, there will be live music, BBQs, a hog roast, a fun-zone for kids and all kinds of other entertainment throughout the afternoon.

The festivities will continue late into the evening with music, fancy dress and a raffle featuring a host of outstanding prizes.

Profits will be donated to the ALF, a charity which is committed to supporting local and military charities through sporting and social endeavours.

Saturday’s tournament starts at 12 noon with the cup final expected to start at 5.50pm.

For more details contact alf10s@outlook.com or visit www.aaronlewisfoundation.org.uk.