We've got it tagged!

The turnout was the biggest since the festival's inception and primary schools from across the district flocked to Devizes to take part.

Tag rugby sees the traditional rules of rugby altered to minimise the risk of injury. To tackle an opponent, players must tag them rather than bring them to the ground.

As in previous years, the emphasis of the festival was placed firmly on the excitement of participation in a large sporting event and fun.

Amanda Cox, the leisure development officer for Kennet, was delighted to see 20 schools taking part in the popular event. She said: "It has been very popular. The festival has grown each year and a lot of primary schools are now playing tag rugby.

"We've had schools coming from all over the district. All Cannings and Southbroom took part, along with those we don't normally get as easily, like Burbage, Pewsey and Woodborough."

The winners of this festival will represent Kennet in the South West Extravaganza at Burnham-on-Sea June 13. The runners-up will play in the Area Youth Games at Millfield School on July 12.

Said Cox: "The emphasis is on fun and participation, but the winners and runners-up have the chance to represent the district and that is good for them. They also win a trophy as well."

Wiltshire's rugby development officer Matt Sheppard helped co-ordinate yesterday's event, while members of host club Devizes assisted with refereeing duties.

Organisers hope a positive introduction to the sport will lead many young people joining the junior sections of their local rugby club. Said Cox: "Devizes always help us and are trying to promote rugby to keep juniors in their club.

"Creating school links to local clubs is very important to us. We will be running various tag rugby courses for teachers to attend so they will be able to take the game back to their school. Tag rugby is a game that can be played at any school. All you need is a bit of grass and a few markers."