Stephen Clark Memorial Cup

Stephen Clark Memorial Cup
Saturday 12th. May, 2007

St. Austell 1st. XV played St. Austell Titans (Veterans) at Tregorrick Parc on Saturday for this brand new trophy - a solid silver cup - to remember a young man whose greatest passion was watching rugby football.

Stephen Clark, who lived in Luxulyan and had been born with a brain defect, sadly passed away in January at the age of just 29. He had needed constant care and was unable to talk, but despite his disability he always seemed cheerful and still managed to make his thoughts known to those who knew him well.

Because of illness, Stephen was unable to attend many Cornish Pirates games, but he was at St. Austell on the Saturday before he died, watching a junior game and proudly wearing his Pirates 'hoody'.

Joe Beardshaw makes the first presentation of the Trophy

Stephen's parents, Carole and Grant, were honoured and delighted that Joe Beardshaw from the Cornish Pirates made the inaugural presentation of the trophy to Ian 'Sid' Venner, captain of the 1st. XV. In a fast flowing and entertaining game, refereed by Terry Mortimer from the Cornwall Rugby Referees Society, St Austell first XV recorded a narrow 31-30 points victory against the Veterans.

Rudi Grenfell looks on while the signed shirt is auctioned

It was a well organized & fun packed afternoon culminating with an Auction that included a signed 'Pirates' shirt.

Luxlass & Luxlad (Clive Eich) With some of the Press Gang party

A substantial party from the Cornish Pirates - with the EDF Energy National Trophy - turned out to support the day. Along with Joe Beardshaw, were players Sam Parsons and Mike Provis, staffers Rudi Grenfell and Geoff Nicholas, 'ASK' Security representatives Kevin and Dave, plus a substantial contingent of the Pirates Press Gang supporters club.

Clive Eich from Luxulyan not only provided the Press Gang transport but also played a major role in the afternoon's proceedings.