RUGBY players will unite at Hawcoat Park this Sunday in memory of a very popular player.

Dan Logan passed away 15 years ago aged 22, after a very short but brave battle against a rare form of testicular cancer.

A talented all-round sportsman, Dan starred for Hawcoat Park (then Vickers) on the rugby field and also basketball for Barrow Thorns.

A special charity game between Dan's former Vickers team-mates and a team from Edge Hill University - where Dan studied – takes place on Sunday (1pm kick-off).

The Dan Logan Memorial Day will begin with a Walking Rugby game featuring Hawcoat Park Veterans (12.15pm ko).

After the two rugby matches have been played, Dan's former team-mates, friends and family members will be celebrating his life and enjoying live music and refreshments at the Hawcoat Park Cider Fest.

The idea of playing a 15th anniversary match in Dan's memory came from his mum Anne Logan Huxtable, who wanted to bring together all his friends from Vickers Rugby Union and Edge Hill.

Key oragnisers of the match have been Dan's former Vickers RU team-mate Adam Williamson and Phil Bygrave, a friend of Dan's from his college days at Edge Hill.

The teams will be made up of lads who played rugby with Dan, and those who knew him from university and basketball.

In addition, there will be a few lads representing their fathers who played rugby with Dan at Vickers, but are now too old to lace up their boots.

Dan's mum Anne will be selling raffle tickets pitch-side with all money raised going to her chosen charity, Teenage and Young Adult Unit at Christie's Hospital Manchester, where Dan was treated.

Other fund-raising initiatives include sales of special Edge Hill Alumni ties and a special souvenir film recording of the occasion.

Said Anne: “It is hard to believe its 15 years since my lovely Dan died; I'm humbled that his mates from Barrow and Edge Hill want to mark this anniversary, it will be an emotional day.”

Phil Bygrave said: “The Edge Hill Lads are made up of 22 graduates from 2002-2004 who learned, played, lived and laughed alongside Dan (AKA Logi Bear) and are are getting together to form the 'Logi Bear's Who's Still Got Hair Tour 2018'.

“Dan was a huge influence to all our lives with his quick wit, loyal friendship and general outlook on life.

“The age-old saying the brightest stars burn out the fastest has never been so meaningful.

“Although all of our Alumni would have liked to have been there we are spread far and wide with sentiments being sent in from the USA, Australia and other places.

“However, those still based within the UK and Ireland borders are making the trip by train, plane and automobile.

“Some haven't seen each other since graduation 15 years ago, some played in the infamous Edgehill Beavers tour of 2008.

“Regardless of time and distance the bond is formed between us and Dan is the glue therefore when this was put on the table most didn’t hesitate to sign up. Although, admittedly after various long careers in rugby, no doubt some need gaffer tape to help keep them together.”

Running order

12.15pm: Walking Rugby game - Hawcoat Park Veterans

1pm: Vickers Vets v Edgehill University Vets

2.30pm: Celebrating Dan's life with songs, drinks and laughter.