Members of the Surrey Beavers Rugby Club carolled for a cause Dec. 21.
The ruggers took part in the club’s 13th annual Christmas caroling night. The night sees members belt out carols in the streets and stop at various places in downtown Cloverdale as they spread good cheer and song—all while raising money for charity.
This year the ruggers raised $1,165 for the Surrey Food Bank.
The rugby players start at their famous clubhouse, the Beaverlodge, and embark on an “enlightened musical pub crawl for a great cause,” according to club member Walter van Halst.
The Beavers’ stops include Original Joes, the Cloverdale Legion, the Clydesdale Inn, and Rusty’s, with various points in between.
“Fueled with a healthy blend of frosty libations and warm holiday spirit, the lads sing for donations of cash,” explained van Halst. “All rugby players either donate cash or bring food items as well.”
He noted the costumed carolers are now a “welcome tradition” in the downtown core and are known for both “spreading merriment” and “supporting local alehouses” all while bringing awareness to, and supporting the needs of, the less fortunate during the Christmas season.
He added these “local rugby elves” always take the fundraising and merrymaking parts of the club’s annual carol night very seriously, while holding themselves in less serious regard.