A DETERMINED group of rugby players are closing in on a world record, and raising thousands for two charities in the process.

Two teams are playing in the match at Sixways Stadium, in an attempt to break the world record of 31 hours of continuous rugby.

There are 46 players, 23 a side, and for every hour each player participates they are allowed five minutes rest.

Players are being supported by a variety of staff to get through the gruelling challenge, including physiotherapists from Worcester University.

Already more than £40,000 has been raised, which is being split between two charities, The Firefighters Charity and Scotty’s Little Soldiers, which supports children who lost a parent serving in the British Armed Forces.

The game began at 8am this morning (Friday), and is expected to finish at around 2.30pm on Saturday afternoon, when there will be a short presentation to the players.

Dave Allison, event organiser, said when the match initially kicked off morale was low due to rain, but the mood soon picked up.

“I expect they will be low again in the early hours. They will be in a dark place but that is why we need the crowds - we want people to come along and support them, and smash the record,” Mr Allison said.

“It’s just a charitable donation on the door to get in.

“Let’s get a crowd to help them over the line.”

Wayne Bennett, from Stourport, is one of the players taking part in the challenge.

The 45-year-old is a former firefighter, who relied on the charity’s help after his ankle has to be reconstructed, following an injury.

“I want to give something back to the charity, as I can’t thank them enough,” he said.

“I have never done anything like this before.

“When I started it was a mixture of nervousness and anxiety.

“We are going to need the crowds at the end.

“My family will be here to support us. I’m planning to sleep on Sunday, to recover.”

Tomorrow, a family fun day has also been organised running between 10am and 4pm.

After the event a charity evening will be held from 7pm, to also raise money. Tickets cost £10 on the door.

For more details see charityworldrecordrugby.co.uk.