Our programme leader Richard Byrom writes: “Thank you to all the schools, teachers, coaches, helpers and parents who made the afternoon possible at Kelham Road.

“This second festival follows the successful event in November 2021 when we had 120 children along.

“Over the past 8 weeks we have been working with the children both in lessons and at after school clubs as part of the Local Schools programme set up by Newark Rugby Club with local primary schools.

“For many of the children it was their first experience of playing rugby but over the past 8 weeks they have developed some basic rugby skills and an understanding of the game which culminated in an afternoon at Kelham Road.

“The games were refereed by volunteers from the club including Matt Cove and Martin Brummitt who both attended local Newark primary schools.

“It’s been tremendous to see how the schools have really engaged into the programme - hence the fantastic numbers who came along. I hope everyone enjoyed the experience and a taste of rugby union.”

Schools at the Festival were:
Coddington, Sir Donald Bailey, Flintham, Farndon, Barnby Road, Chuter Ede, Winthorpe, Bishop Alexander, Lovers Lane, Christchurch, Kings.
Newark Rugby Club’s primary schools group also includes John Hunt and John Blow Collingham. They did not attend.