AN innovative project to raise money for the rugby club at Tavistock College has been declared a 'huge success'. Project X started when school rugby captain Mark 'Hammy' Kerswill decided to raise funds for some much needed equipment. Sherrel Reed, whose husband is a coach for the club, came up with the idea of holding a big fundraiser — and so Project X was formed. Together Sherrel, 'Hammy' and the team's manager Simon Wallace got together to plan the project. The main idea was a 2008 calendar but to add some fun it was decided to dress the team in ballet tutus. The pictures were taken by student Brigit Luffingham at Tavistock Rugby Club. Project X was kept a secret from everyone at the school, apart from the players and a few others — but towards the end of term, the secret was unveiled with a night of singing and dancing at Tavistock Town Hall. The team rehearsed 'The dance of the Sugar Plumb Fairy', Swan Lakes 'Dance of the Four Swans' and Michael Jackson's 'Thriller' along with the Can Can and 'Riverdance'. The event was deemed a huge success by its organisers and has helped raise almost £2,000 for the club. Sherrel said: 'All in all the evening was a huge success and one not to be forgotten — in fact, people are already asking when the next one will be.' She paid tribute to the Blacksmith's Arms, the Ordulph, the Pasty House, Kivells, the Bird's Nest, Tavistock Rugby Club, Plymouth Albion, Britannia Building Society, Keith Hollinshead and Nigel Larcombe-Williams, Dukes, Bryants and Joes who sponsored the calendar, and to Robin's and Honey's Wish who donated draw prizes. l Pictured left are teacher and founder of the rugby club at Tavistock College, Tony Welsh, school captain Mark 'Hammy' Kerswill, teacher and coach Tristan Forster, and coach Will Reed with four members of Plymouth Albion RFC.
