A charity rugby match is being held in memory of three teenagers killed in a devastating car crash last summer.

Aaron Bell, 18, from Jervaulx, Louis Banks, 17, and Tommy Shevels, 18, both from Healey, died in the collision on the B6268, Masham Road, near Thornton Watlass, Bedale in July. The 18-year-old driver of the car was seriously injured.

On May 27, Wensleydale Rugby Club and Bishop Burton College will hold a rugby match in honour of Aaron, Louis and Tommy. Aaron and Louis had both played for Wensleydale since they were youngsters, and Aaron went to Bishop Burton College where he represented the academy team.

The game will be held at Wensleydale Rugby Club, Leyburn, postcode DL8 5ED on May 27 at 3pm. The game will be used to raise vital funds for charities Young Minds, Brake and Yorkshire Air Ambulance.

Anyone who would like to sponsor the event, or support it in any way is asked to contact Nicola Bell-Percy by email at springhill460@btinternet.com or Alan Noon by email at alannoon@yahoo.co.uk.

A spokesperson for the club said: "We would dearly love to see as many people as possible at the club to honour our teammates and friends. The Wensleydale Club bar will be open serving local refreshments, a barbecue will be available as well as raffle prizes.

"We are looking for any sponsors, if you would like to help support these great charities please contact Alan or Nicola. We encourage as many people as possible to attend for what will be a great game of rugby and a fitting tribute to three wonderful young men."

The tragedy sparked an outpouring of grief in the local community, with flags lowered to half-mast at buildings in Masham and Bedale, and books of condolence opened at St Mary’s Church in Masham.