Bethany Branson Memorial Match Returns to Honour Beloved Teen and Celebrate Women’s Rugby
By Jill Dando News
A family from Bridgwater is inviting the community to come together this November to remember the life of “kind and caring” 19-year-old Bethany Branson — whose legacy continues to inspire through sport, kindness, and compassion.
Bethany tragically lost her life in November 2022 when the car she was travelling in was struck by a drink-driver.
Since then, her family, friends, and teammates have channelled their heartbreak into something positive — the annual Beth Branson Memorial Match & Fundraiser — a night that celebrates her love of rugby, raises money for causes close to her heart, and sends out a vital message about road safety.
A Night to Remember
The third annual Memorial Match will take place on Thursday 14th November at Bridgwater & Albion Rugby Football Club, bringing together players, supporters, and the local community for an evening of sport, remembrance, and love.
This year’s match will be extra special, as Gill Burns MBE — one of the original pioneers of women’s rugby — will be joining as Manager of the Wooden Spoon Barbarians.
Gill’s contribution to women’s rugby is nothing short of legendary. Representing England from 1988 to 2002, she earned 73 caps, captained her country, and was part of the 1994 Women’s Rugby World Cup-winning squad.
Following her playing days, she became President of the Rugby Football Union for Women (RFUW), the first woman ever made a Privileged Member of the RFU, and was awarded an MBE in 2005 for services to sport. In 2014, she was inducted into the World Rugby Hall of Fame.
“To have someone of Gill’s calibre, heart and history with the women’s game coming to our event means the absolute world to us,” said Amy, Bethany’s Mum. “It adds even more meaning to a night already filled with pride, love and remembrance — and we know Bethy would be absolutely loving this.”
The timing feels especially powerful in the year England lifted the Women’s Rugby World Cup once again, a full-circle moment that reminds us how far the women’s game has come, thanks to pioneers like Gill.
Continuing Bethany’s Legacy
Bethany was described by her loved ones as “full of life, laughter, and love.” A talented rugby player and proud member of the Bridgwater & Albion RFC Ladies team, she was equally devoted to animals and helping others.
Funds raised go towards two causes that reflect Bethy’s passions:
St Giles Animal Welfare, providing care and rehoming for rescued animals.
The Wooden Spoon Charity, supporting children and young people facing disadvantage through sport and education.
A Message That Matters
Each year, during Road Safety Awareness Month, Bethany’s family hope her story reminds people to pause and think - to drive with care, to never drive under the influence, and to look out for one another on the roads.
“We simply want to share Bethy’s story and her message,” her family said.
“If it makes even one person think twice before getting behind the wheel after drinking, that’s something she would be proud of.”
Supporting the Cause
The event has already become a cherished fixture in the local calendar, uniting the community in memory, sport, and kindness. Those unable to attend can still show support by donating online or helping to spread Bethany’s message of compassion and awareness.
Bethany Branson Memorial Match & Fundraiser
🗓 Thursday 14th November 2025
📍 Bridgwater & Albion Rugby Football Club
💛 Supporting: St Giles Animal Welfare & Wooden Spoon
To find out more or make a donation, visit the Facebook group dedicated to the match & fundraiser https://www.facebook.com/share/g/1BDeDXsHAN/?mibextid=wwXIfr
Or to donate http://www.tinyurl.com/2025bethbranson
