More than 2,500 people attended a memorial rugby match in honour of 20-year-old Owen Bennett, who died on July 22.
The game was held at Caerphilly Rugby Club on Sunday, August 4.
Owen, who played hooker, rose through the ranks of Caerphilly RFC playing his junior, youth, and finally senior rugby at the club. He had recently joined Nelson RFC and had been due to star for the team this coming season in the Division One East league.
Owen, who had played for the Dragons at Under 16 and Under 18 level, also represented his school – Ysgol Gyfun Cwm Rhymni – and had spells at Bargoed RFC and Aber Valley Wolves.
The match was contested between a Caerphilly Select XV and Benny’s Baa Baas XV, with the latter winning the game.
In total, 88 players played in the game, including Owen’s father, who led the teams out and was presented with the trophy after the game.
Television presenter Matt Johnson, who is from Abertridwr and used to play for Caerphilly’s youth team, also played.
Rest well Owen #togetherasone @caerphillyrugby pic.twitter.com/FH3hWR9NQy
— Matt Johnson (@Mattjohnsons) August 4, 2019
Scarlets and ex-Wales winger Tom James, who was born in Rhymney, who has previously been open about his struggles with mental health, was in attendance.
The game was split into four 20-minute quarters.
Caerphilly RFC chairman Gareth Ashman said: “It was fantastic, we had more than 100 people who wanted to play.
“People from all over the Rhymney Valley came to remember Owen.”
Mr Ashman added: “We’ve raised a significant amount so far. We’re still counting the money but we’ve possibly raised around £6,000.”
After the game, the club posted on Twitter: “Thank you to all that came out today to celebrate the life of Owen Bennett. Truly humbling to be part of such an amazing day. Thank you one and all.”
The proceeds raised will go towards Owen’s family and a number of charities, including bereavement support charity 2 Wish Upon a Star.
A JustGiving page was set up by Mr Ashman to help cover the costs of Owen’s funeral.
The initial target of £5,000 was raised within just three days.
To make a donation, visit www.justgiving.com/crowdfunding/owenbennett.