An amazing 1,000 children have taken part in the biggest Rugby League festival that Northumberland has ever seen.
Organised by highly-regarded local side, Cramlington Rockets, children from year 1 to year 6 travelled from schools across Northumberland and North Tyneside to take part at the event at Burnside Primary School.
Over the course of the day, the matches were refereed by 30 Sporting Leaders and year 10 students from Cramlington Learning Village that have been learning leadership and organisation skills with the Rockets.
Having impressed with 500 in attendance last year, as is their way, the Rockets looked to go bigger and better this year.
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"Today has been amazing," said Rockets Community Manager, Steve Beaty.
"To have 1,000 children for any event, never mind for what is meant to be a minority sport.
"The Leaders have been fantastic and I must mention our community staff. They do so much in the schools and don't always get the recognition they deserve.
"We've had some children who have never touched a rugby ball before but every single one is leaving with a massive smile on their face and with a positive experience of our sport."
They were able to achieve this with the support of The Education Network, a leading education recruitment agency that has offices across the country, including in Newcastle.
With having fun and playing the main purpose of the day, no scores were kept meaning every child got to take part and simply enjoy playing. Where awards were handed out, this was for good behaviour and best attitude amongst other awards to recognise good sportsmanship and character.
Leigh Rackham of the Education network was thrilled to see so many involved: "What struck us is how much effort Cramlington Rockets put into the community.
"Supporting the Rockets today shows the way that local and national companies want to support Cramlington Rockets.
"It's great to see them develop Rugby League in the North East, hopefully raise awareness of Rugby League and find the next star."
The backing clearly meant a lot to Beaty, who added: "thanks to the Education Network, each child here today will receive a certificate for participating. It means a lot to have such a highly recognised company sponsor us and if it was not for their support, this would have not been possible today."
