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Wales Online
Wales Online
Sport
Katie Sands

Welsh rugby community rallies as former player fights for his life after crash

Welsh rugby communities have rallied to raise thousands for a former player who is fighting for his life in hospital after a crash in Scotland.

Stephen Taylor, whose van crashed into the back of a lorry, had to be cut from the vehicle by emergency services after the crash near Lockerbie on Monday morning.

The 34-year-old, who previously represented Caerleon RFC, Pontypool, Newport and Wales Sevens Under-21s, was then airlifted to Queen Elizabeth University Hospital in Glasgow where he has remained in intensive care.

Since then, Welsh rugby and the wider communities from the ex-player's home have rallied to raise more than £11,000 to aid his family and loved ones during this time.

The gofundme page set up this week has already reached more than half its target of £20,000 to help Stephen's family and his partner, Molly.

The page reads: "This fund is to Support Steve, and those who rely on him, with the many expenses that they will incur during this tough time. This is especially important, considering Steve is self-employed, and does not have the safety net many of us have in our jobs.

"Both Steve and Molly’s Family are by his side whilst he’s fighting in Glasgow, never venturing far away. Any support, no matter how little, will help with travel, accommodation and time away from employment. Even the smallest amount is appreciated more than these words can say.

"It will allow those close to his side in Glasgow to remain close by and really focus on what matters most – getting the cheeky, active, smiley Steve that we all have so much love for back to good health."

Stephen with Wales Sevens under 21s (back second from right) (Gareth Sherrington)
Stephen and his partner Molly Meadows (Gareth Sherrington)

Stephen's former rugby clubs have all rallied round to help share the crowdfunding page and send their best wishes.

The self-employed electrician, from Caerleon, moved to Lincolnshire around five years ago and was in Scotland for work when the crash happened.

You can visit the gofundme page here.

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