A RECORD Leicester Tigers crowd gave Alix Wood a huge ovation after she completed her epic fundraising trek from Launceston.

Alix, from Tinhay, Lifton, walked 230-miles from Launceston Rugby Club at Polson, to Welford Road to raise money for the Matt Hampson Trust, which was set up to support Tigers prop Matt Hampson after he was seriously injured following an accident while training with England under-21s.

Supported by her husband Kevin, she arrived at the ground in time for Tigers' first home game of the season against Newcastle Falcons on Saturday.

Alix was given a half-time reception on the pitch in front of 24,000 supporters, a record for a league game at Welford Road.

She also met Tigers chief executive Peter Wheeler, the former Tigers, England and British and Irish Lions hooker, who is her favourite player.

Alix said: "I was nervous about going onto the pitch but it was lovely to meet Peter Wheeler. The response has been fantastic and the money we have raised has made it all worthwhile."

The rugby community has got behind the venture with fans of all Guinness Premiership clubs making donations. Alix and Kevin were guests at the Recreation Ground midway through the walk, where they were welcomed by supporters of Bath Rugby and London Wasps.

Alix added: "It has been one of the best two weeks of my life. People all the way have been very

supportive and I want to thank everyone for their generous donations."

Roy Jackson, chairman of the Matt Hampson Trust fundraising committee and Tigers director, said: "I think it is fantastic for a Tigers fan in Cornwall to come up with the idea to walk to the first home game of the season. What Alix has done is phenomenal."

To make a donation or for more information visit http://www.alixwood.co.uk/wfm">www.alixwood.co.uk/wfm.