Matt Garvey, who made just shy of 100 appearances down the road before switching the Rec for Kingsholm in 2020, will lead a team of seven former teammates as they complete a tough physical challenge ahead of tomorrow evening's West Country derby.

The team will begin at the Rec, before taking to the water to row along the River Avon to the centre of Bristol.

The seven lads will then jump on their bikes and cycle to where Gloucester & Sharpness Canal meets the River Severn. From which they will row towards Gloucester Quays.

They will complete the final stretch of the challenge by foot, as they walk from Gloucester Quays to Kingsholm in time for kick-off.

Garvey will be joined by former Cherry & Whites Charlie Sharples, Darren Dawidiuk, Todd Gleave, Olly Morgan and Dan Murphy. As well as former Bath man Mat Gilbert for their challenge.

The boys will be partaking in the challenge to raise money for former teammate, Ed Slater, who was diagnosed with Motor Neurone Disease (MND) in July.

In light of Ed's diagnosis, Gloucester Rugby and the Slater family established the ‘4Ed’ campaign; a platform designed to raise awareness of MND and generate funds for Ed’s family and his treatment.

Garvey said: “It’s going to be a huge challenge for me and the lads. I can’t say I’m much of a cycler or even a rower, and I’m not sure a retired, 6ft 6 lock is a natural fit for two wheels but the challenge is for such a worthy cause that I will happily squeeze myself into lycra for Ed."

You can donate to Matt's fundraiser HERE.

Matt Garvey to lead derby day challenge for 4Ed

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