York Cavaliers, York RUFC's dedicated veterans and social XV team, took on Rowntree RUFC in the charity game which was held as a tribute to Grant Cockburn, who died suddenly in April at the age of 59.

Rowntree RUFC players wore a special tartan strip for the Grant Cockburn Memorial , featuring the colours of his beloved Hearts FC. (Image: Submitted)

Grant was a Haxby town councillor, having also served as chairman and vice chairman, as well as a keen sportsman, who represented both Rowntrees and York RI RUFC during his playing days and also wore the shirt for York Cavs.

He also dedicated hours to coaching junior football teams across Haxby and Wigginton.

The charity fixture at York Sports Club, Clifton Park, Shipton Road, was held on Saturday, October 10 which would have been his 60th birthday.

York Cavaliers and Rowntree RUFC played the Grant Cockburn Memorial Match on Saturday, October 10 which would have been his 60th birthday. (Image: Submitted)

Organisers said Grant had planned to mark his milestone by pulling on a rugby shirt once again and taking to the pitch - so Rowntrees ensured that plan still went ahead in his memory, with players wearing a special tartan strip for the occasion, featuring the colours of his beloved Hearts FC.

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The event brought together friends and former team mates, and raised more than £2,000, with proceeds to the British Heart Foundation, York Cavaliers, and Rowntree RUFC.

The Grant Cockburn Memorial Match on Saturday, October 10 was a celebration of his life and love of the sport. (Image: Submitted)

Organisers said the emotional occasion was a fitting celebration of his life and love of the sport. 

The match ended 27-17 to Rowntree RUFC, but rivalry was put to one side as the two teams supported Grant's family and a cause close to those involved. 

York Cavaliers and Rowntree RUFC played the Grant Cockburn Memorial Match on Saturday, October 10 which would have been his 60th birthday. (Image: Submitted)

Jim Baldwin, former long-serving chairman and player of Rowntree RUFC, said: "The day was really about Grant.

"We wanted to bring everyone together, remember him in the best way we could and hopefully raise some money for a fantastic cause at the same time.

"The support we received was incredible. Seeing so many people from the York rugby community turn out shows how much Grant meant to people."

Current chairman Ryan Roodt added: "Grant would have absolutely loved seeing everyone together.

"Rugby was a big part of his life, so to see York Cavs and Rowntrees come together like this was very special.

"A particular highlight was both his sons donning the Rowntrees shirt for the game, with Louie scoring on the 5m line. We genuinely can't thank everyone enough for their support."

The teams are now looking to mark this occasion by turning it into an annual fundraiser in Grant's memory.

Following his death, Haxby Town Council described Cllr Grant Cockburn as a "hard-working, passionate supporter of all things Haxby and Wigginton, with a special interest in providing sporting facilities within the community.

"He was highly regarded amongst his fellow councillors, acting as both chair and vice chair during his period in office. His sense of humour, practicality and kindness marked him out as special."

York Cavaliers and Rowntree RUFC played the Grant Cockburn Memorial Match on Saturday, October 10 which would have been his 60th birthday. (Image: Submitted)

Tributes were also paid by Rowntree Rugby Union: "Grant was a cornerstone of our club and the wider York rugby community. He embodied everything that grassroots rugby stands for, both on and off the field.

"His commitment, character, and passion for the game left a lasting impression on everyone who had the privilege of playing alongside him or knowing him.

"Grant made 99 appearances for Rowntrees, and in recognition of his contribution, the committee has taken the decision to honour him by placing his name in the 100 Club. It is a fitting tribute, ensuring his legacy and love for the game will forever be part of Rowntrees’ history."