HCR Law’s touch rugby tournament to celebrate memory of local rugby legend Neal ‘Paddy’ Patterson

The partners and staff at HCR Law’s Leamington Spa office are holding a special touch rugby tournament on Thursday 22 April 2027 at Trinity Guild RFC, Segro Park, Coventry CV8 3EE to celebrate the life of their former colleague Neal ‘Paddy’ Patterson, who passed away last year.

The tournament aims to raise money for the Wooden Spoon charity which helps change the lives of children and young people through the power of the rugby community. Since 1983, the charity has raised more than £34m supporting more than two million children.

Paddy was a Partner in the Agriculture team at the law firm Wright Hassall, which was acquired by HCR Law last year.

Law aside, his biggest passion was rugby, and he was a long-standing supporter of Leicester Tigers and Ulster Rugby. He coached all three of his sons, Aidan, Nat and Jonah in their respective mini and junior age groups and regularly volunteered to help coach and referee whenever he could.

Locally and nationally, Paddy was a well-known driving force for fundraising through rugby and a dedicated supporter of Wooden Spoon including playing in their annual Vets Fest tournament and the Longest Game in 2025 where both the men’s and women’s matches achieved Guinness World Records for the longest continuous games of rugby union.

The HCR Law touch rugby tournament aims pay tribute to his memory by raising vital funds for Wooden Spoon.

The event runs from 1pm-6pm on Thursday 22 April 2027, with kick off at 2pm. It is a competitive touch rugby tournament. Entry costs £25 per person or £200 for a team of 12. Refreshments will be available at the bar alongside a bake sale, snacks and raffle.

To find out more contact Emily-Jade Hodson or call her on 07825 715028.

A spokesperson for Wooden Spoon said: “We are incredibly grateful to HCR Law for choosing to support Wooden Spoon and for helping us honour Paddy’s memory through meaningful opportunities to fundraise, raise awareness and get involved.

“Together, we can continue Paddy’s legacy and help give children and young people the chance to thrive.”