Stourton Park was bathed in sunshine for the annual James Allport under 13s festival which brought junior teams from around the region, and beyond, to the Midlands. The festival serves to remind young players to take the game seriously, however, always remembering Rugby should be enjoyable. It was an honour to host the event.

The festival featured teams from 15 clubs divided into three groups, and while RFU rules prevent competitive competition meaning there was no trophy up for grabs, the standard of rugby was worthy of such an important date in the club calendar.

The action took place on three pitches with the hosts featuring on the main AGP pitch against Telford, Sutton, Newport and Shrewsbury.

Unfortunately matches on the main pitch were delayed early on due to an injury to a Newport player which required the attendance of an ambulance and an Air Ambulance.

The injured player was treated for a suspected broken leg and knee damage, happily it was later reported his leg was not broken and we wish him a speedy recovery and return to rugby.

There is no doubt the arrival of the helicopter, which landed on the main pitch, was a dramatic addition to the day.

As a thank you for their attendance, and allowing the Stourbridge players a close look at the helicopter, a donation will be made to the Air Ambulance by the age group from the profits of the sweet stall.

The visiting clubs paid plenty of compliments about the organisation of the festival, and there is no doubt the cake shop and hot food counter did good business throughout the day.

As well as the high quality of play the standard of officiating was also good, referees took into account the shorter duration of fixtures and allowed games to flow while ensuring laws were properly enforced.

Despite the delay on the main pitch, the festival finished on time and proved a great way to celebrate the enthusiasm and ability of young players in the region and the outstanding facilitates here at Stourbridge Rugby Club.