This November, the Beth Branson Memorial Match & Fundraiser returns for its third year, bringing together community spirit, rugby passion, and a powerful message against drink-driving. The event honors 19-year-old Bethany Branson, who tragically lost her life in November 2022 when the car she was in was struck by a drunk driver.
Bethany’s family and friends established this annual match to celebrate her love of rugby while advocating for road safety and supporting charitable causes close to her heart. The upcoming match will be held on Friday, November 14, at Bridgwater & Albion Rugby Football Club, with gates opening at 6:30 pm and kick-off at 7:30 pm.
Highlighting this year’s event, rugby legend Gill Burns MBE will manage the Wooden Spoon Barbarians team. Burns, a celebrated former England captain and member of the 1994 Women’s Rugby World Cup-winning squad, earned 73 caps in her career. She was the first woman appointed as a Privileged Member of the Rugby Football Union, received an MBE in 2005, and was inducted into the World Rugby Hall of Fame in 2014.
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Bethany’s mother, Amy Branson, expressed her gratitude, saying, “Having someone of Gill’s calibre and dedication to women’s rugby at our event means the world to us. It deepens the night’s meaning, filled with pride, love, and remembrance. Bethy would have been so proud.”
This year’s match coincides with the rising prominence of women’s rugby following England’s recent Rugby World Cup triumph—a testament to the trailblazers like Gill Burns who paved the way.
Bethany was an avid rugby player herself, proudly representing Bridgwater & Albion RFC Ladies. Remembered as vibrant and compassionate, she also cared deeply for animal welfare.
Proceeds from the event will benefit St Giles Animal Welfare, supporting rescued animals, and The Wooden Spoon Charity, which helps disadvantaged youth through sport and education.
Taking place during Road Safety Awareness Month, the match also conveys a crucial message about responsible driving. Bethany’s family hopes that by sharing her story, even one person might reconsider driving under the influence—a legacy of awareness and change in her memory.
Those unable to attend can still contribute through donations or by raising awareness on social media.