Wymondham Rugby Club event is a major success

Ella Creasey guards the cake stall at Wymondham Rugby Club (Image: Archant)

The first night of Wymondham Rugby Club's annual festival on Friday attracted 350 people - an increase of 55 on the previous year.

A choice of 50 real ales, ciders and perries were on tap during the three-day event, while there was also live music, a hog roast and a barbecue.

The club's rugby teams were in action on the Saturday with the youth, colts and ladies teams all taking to the field. There was also a mini rugby tournament for children.

A family fun day was held on Sunday with stalls, rides and live entertainment and, during the weekend, children could enjoy a bouncy castle and mechanical Rodeo bull.

This year, the club has chosen Wymondham-based cancer charity Star Throwers and the East Anglian Air Ambulance to receive a 20pc share of the profits.

Last year, the charities received more than £1,000 each.

Fittingly, the festival coincided with the start of the Aviva Premiership season and Northampton Saints' thumping 53-6 win over Gloucester.

Andy Thomson, a spokesman for the club, said rugby clubs across the country were looking to 'open up' and welcome more players with the rugby World Cup set to be held in England next year. The beer festival helped to fulfill this objective.

He added: 'Rugby is one of those great games that children of all different sizes and aptitudes can play.

'The whole rugby world is trying to open up with the international World Cup next year. We are hoping that more people hear about the sport and encourage their children to come down and play. People can come down and have a look.'

'It was a really good start on Friday night. It was a really good turnout and we have been quite lucky with the weather because it has turned quite settled.'

Free camping was also available over the weekend.

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