AROUND 1,000 young players took part in Lydney Rugby Club's first-ever festival – and it looks set to become an annual event.

The club has around 150 young players starting at under-seven level and while they have travelled to many festivals, this was an opportunity to welcome other clubs to Regentsholme.

Spokesman Dave Beddis said: "The day went really well and there were a lot of compliments from visitors.

"We estimate there were between 3,000 and 4,000 supporters watching the games.

"There will be another festival next year."

The club welcomed players from Berry Hill, Bream and Drybrook as well as others from the west of England.

Lydney enjoyed a successful festival on, as well as off, the field with the under-eights, under-nines and under-12s all winning cups.

The defeated finalists in the under-nines competition were Bream.