THE future of rugby came to Salisbury at the weekend in the shape of hundreds of young sporting enthusiasts from across the region.

Teams of players aged six to 12 plus their adult supporters took over Hudson's field for Salisbury Rugby Club's annual Mini Rugby Festival.

The event attracted more than 1,000 youngsters, making it one of the largest participation sporting events in the county this year.

Salisbury youngsters, who enjoy the distinction of being part of one of the strongest youth coaching outfits in club rugby fielded teams in every age group.

The stars of the show were the under-nines, who are now unbeaten in two years and cruised through the rounds conceding just one try all tournament to win their section.

The under tens also performed well but were held to a draw in the final by a side from Wimborne and had to be content with a share of the spoils.

Elsewhere, Salisbury's under 16s put up some plucky resistance, but lost 10-14 to Devizes in the Wiltshire Cup.

The unbeaten under 14s maintained their record against Havant, chalking up a comprehensive 19-0 victory.

After absorbing early pressure from the visitors, Salisbury took over the driving seat. Jamie McMillan scored twice, Tom Mundy added one try and Robert Jack-son added two conversions.

A brace of tries each from Tom Heathcote and Tom Sheppard helped the under 13s to a 39-22 victory over Swan-age & Wareham.

Ollie Treleaven, James Starkey and David Tonge added a try apiece.