A FATHER and son who are both rugby referees have set themselves a challenge of cycling around the North Midlands visiting every club in the region.

In the extra time created by lockdown Julian and Theo Edwards decided to ride between all 60 rugby grounds affiliated with the North Midlands RFU.

The duo have set themselves a fundraising target of £1,000 split between the RFU’s own Injured Player Fund, and the Matt Hampson Foundation.

Both these charities are vital organisations in the support of amateur rugby players who have experienced life-changing injuries.

Julian grew up in Sutton St Nicholas and attended the Hereford Cathedral School, who he played rugby for.

"I was put on furlough and we wanted to stay fit and do something useful," said Julian.

The duo are well into their challenge and visited Herefordshire on Wednesday starting at Luctonians they then rode to Hereford RFC and then Greyhound.

At each club they visit that is open keen rugby player Theo has an attempt at kicking a conversion.

They used the county's cycle paths and quite roads along the way and visited where Julian grew up.

"It's not been as hard as we thought, although we had some tough days in Shropshire which was quite hilly," added Julian.

"We're up to just under 300 miles and have now got around 100 miles left which should take us five or six days."

Julian took up rugby refereeing after watching his son Theo play and wanting to get involved.

"At the time I thought he was being refereed badly, but actually it's much harder than it looks," Julian added.

"A course then came up and Theo fancied it too. He still plays for Camp Hill and has refereed at a couple of tournaments including one at Worcester's Sixways Stadium."