TWO friends who died from cancer in their 40s are set to be remembered in a unique way – they are to be the posthumous sponsors of Barry RFC’s 2nd team.

It is hoped that a fundraising event, due to take place at Barry Rugby Club on Saturday, March 6 in memory of Wendy Haynes and Mark Ames, will raise enough money to pay for a new kit bearing their names.

Former Woolworths employee Wendy, from Devon Avenue in Barry, died aged 46 in 2008, just 12 weeks after being diagnosed with cancer.

As those who knew Wendy came to terms with the news, tragedy struck again as close family friend Mark Ames, of Gloucester Close, was diagnosed with skin cancer. He died just four months later, aged 45.

Friend-to-both Wayne Wheadon said: "It was a tragic loss, because of who they were and their age.

"We have been thinking for a long time of a way to raise money in a way that will keep their memory alive – and we think we have found the answer.

"If we can sponsor the shirts, we can put their names on the front which would be great. Instead of having a company name on the front, it would be two people from the town who are sadly not with us any longer.

"We hope it will be a nice way of keeping their memories alive and will promote awareness of cancer to otherwise fit and healthy people in the prime of their lives."

Anyone who knew Wendy or Mark, or anyone who would like to contribute, is invited to attend the fundraiser at Barry Rugby Club on the day.

For more information contact sumo@waynewheadon.com