APPALLING weather conditions brought about an abrupt halt to Cooper-Avon Tyres' rugby festival on Sunday but not before the youngsters were able to enjoy some action.

Heavy rain, making playing conditions very difficult, caused the abandonment of the event just an hour after the start but by then the players had done enough to suggest rugby in Wiltshire has a bright future.

Over 400 players from six different clubs took part, record numbers for the annual festival, as well as a healthy crowd of parents and friends.

Teams from Trowbridge, Bradford on Avon, Marlborough, Swindon and Corsham joined their Melksham hosts.

Melksham CATs under sevens played Marlborough in the first match of the day. Melksham started brightly and tries from Callum Gillard and Ryan Evans gave them a 2-1 lead at half time.

Marlborough then equalised after the break before Melksham's Evans scored his second try to regain the lead. Marlborough got the equaliser near the end to cap off a thrilling first match.

Games were being played across all age groups from under 7s to under 12s but unfortunately the rain began to fall making conditions very difficult.

The decision to abandon the festival was made by Bruce Sanders, chairman of CATs.

He said: "It was a hard decision but the right one given the weather conditions we were faced with.

"A third of the games had been played and the children had enjoyed the day up until that point but it was for their health and safety that it should be called to an end.

"Medals were still awarded to congratulate their skill and efforts throughout. Congratulations to all the players and let's hope next year gives us better weather."