THE first Burnham-on-Sea Rugby Festival since the start of the Covid pandemic took place at the weekend, featuring an appearance from a World Cup-winning player.

The event was attended by 1,800 people, including 800 young players from under 7s to under 13s age groups. 

The event is held by Gullivers Sports Travel in conjunction with Burnham-on-Sea RFC.

This was the 22nd instalment of the event, which this year offered new accommodation options to “suit all budgets”. 

A spokesperson for the event said: “The host club Burnham-on-Sea has a very well appointed ground with an extensive clubhouse, a food marquee and ample car parking.

“However, the best thing about the ground is the space! We have enough room for each age group to have their own allocated pitch, with all of the rugby being played on one site.   

“A real party atmosphere defines this end-of-season celebration in unique Gullivers style. No wonder this event is always a sell-out!”

Burnham and Highbridge Weekly News: Parents and spectators watch absorb the action at the rugby festival. Picture: Steve RichardsonParents and spectators watch absorb the action at the rugby festival. Picture: Steve Richardson

The festival is approved by the Rugby Football Union Somerset Division and operates under the Guidance and Laws as set out by the RFU.

The event followed 'Regulation 15' for age-grade rugby and appointed independent referees for each match. 

At the end of the day's play on Sunday, presentations were made at the club by former England international Will Greenwood, who also represented Harlequins and Leicester Tigers. 

Gallery: Gullivers' Burnham-on-Sea Rugby Festival 2022

Burnham and Highbridge Weekly News: The Burnham-on-Sea under 10s team at their home ground. Pictures: Steve RichardsonThe Burnham-on-Sea under 10s team at their home ground. Pictures: Steve Richardson

Burnham and Highbridge Weekly News: Burnham fans at the festival.Burnham fans at the festival.

Burnham and Highbridge Weekly News: Burnham under 10s take on London-based Ruislip.Burnham under 10s take on London-based Ruislip.

Burnham and Highbridge Weekly News: This was the 22nd Gullivers' Burnham-on-Sea Rugby Festival.This was the 22nd Gullivers' Burnham-on-Sea Rugby Festival.

Burnham and Highbridge Weekly News: A Ruislip player attempts to make a tackle.A Ruislip player attempts to make a tackle.

Burnham and Highbridge Weekly News: A Burnham player tried to break through Ruislip's defence. A Burnham player tried to break through Ruislip's defence.

Burnham and Highbridge Weekly News: A look of pure concentration was etched on this Burnham player's face.A look of pure concentration was etched on this Burnham player's face.

Burnham and Highbridge Weekly News: Around 800 youth players attended the festival in Burnham.Around 800 youth players attended the festival in Burnham.

Burnham and Highbridge Weekly News: A Ruislip player carries the ball forwards in their match against the home side.A Ruislip player carries the ball forwards in their match against the home side.