There will be blood, sweat and beers as a school hopes to raise £1,000 for charity at a rugby match.

Former students from Wilmington Grammar School for Boys are pitting their skills against current students to raise the money for the ellenor hospices charity.

The annual Old Boys v 1st XV match will be held in memory of teacher Keith White, who passed away in 2012.

Mr White had taught at the school for many years and the charity had supported him before his passing, said Danny Carter, an ex-student helping organise the match.

“The event has been held every year since his death. We raised £100 in the first year, but it has been gaining in popularity every year. This year we are expecting to raise about £1,000,” said Mr Carter.

Donations from supporters and a collection at a local pub after the game will all be given to the charity, he added.

“Mr White was a very well-respected man. I enjoyed attending his lessons on religious studies at school. He was a lovely individual and the cause sits closely to all our hearts.”

Head teacher Andy Williamson said the match, which has become a regular fixture in the school’s Christmas calendar, was a great way to remember Mr White.

He said: “As well as preventing the school from forgetting Mr White, it provides an opportunity to raise funds for a wonderful charity. It also serves as a great excuse for ex-students to revisit the school and catch up with their friends and teachers.”

Angela Ward, of the ellenor charity, said they were grateful for the support: “We are delighted to be invited. It would be good to watch the match and support the people who are supporting us. We need to raise £6.7m each year to continue caring for people, so every single penny is important to us.”

The match will be held on December 16 and donations can be made to the school office by calling 01322 223 090.