LAST week, Wharfedale RUFC was the venue for a feast of rugby as nearly 200 children aged 8 to 11 attended the Sedbergh Preparatory School Festival.

The connection between Sedbergh and the Wharfedale club has long been in existence.

James Doherty, currently on the staff at Sedbergh, is a former captain and coach at Wharfedale.

The present headmaster of Sedbergh is Daniel Harrison, another ex-Wharfedale captain.

However, the day was all about the younger generation. Boys from Mowden Hall, Aysgarth, St Mary's Hall, Cundall Manor as well as the 'home team' enjoyed a great afternoon of rugby.

Every school brought with them large squads, and with 11 hours of rugby played over the pitches, everyone gained meaningful time on the pitch and developed friendships off it.

Referees managed the games in the true spirit of schoolboy rugby, encouraging positive play, and parents applauded good play and effort by all.

Doherty, who was thrilled with success of the event, said: “The smiles on the faces of the kids say it all. Festivals like this allow for children to experience multiple competitive fixtures against a range from across the North of England. Whilst competitive, the days' focus was development of schools.”