It was a ruby anniversary with a difference, as North Walsham Rugby Club celebrated its 40th minis festival.

Eastern Daily Press: North Walsham Rugby Club hosted a mini rugby festival for junior teams from around the county. George Dunscombe (Crusaders) with the ball. PHOTO: Nick ButcherNorth Walsham Rugby Club hosted a mini rugby festival for junior teams from around the county. George Dunscombe (Crusaders) with the ball. PHOTO: Nick Butcher (Image: �archant2017)

About 900 youngsters, aged from six to 12, from clubs across four counties poured into Scottow for five hours of rugby, playing 185 matches with sometimes 24 in progress simultaneously.

Minis chairman Mike Mack, who played in some of the early festivals, said: 'The festival was the biggest yet and the day was a massive success. The weather was perfect, with sufficient overnight rain for the players to get muddy, and it was good to see the sport's core values of teamwork, respect, enjoyment, discipline and sportsmanship so evident.'

Many playing at the festival have gone onto illustrious rugby careers including Ben and Tom Youngs, who represented Holt.

Club president Dave Horne said: 'it was a great day; wonderful to see so many talented youngsters enjoying themselves.'