ALMOST 500 budding young rugby players from across Test Valley pitted their wits against each other at the annual Test Valley Primary Schools TAG Rugby Tournament.

The event, organised by Andover-based housing association Aster Communities’ antisocial behaviour (ASB) team, Andover Rugby Club and Harrow Way School, saw seven to 11-year-olds from 20 local primary schools battle it out in nearly 120 games.

Dave Kane, Aster Communities ASB project co-ordinator, said: “This year’s event was the biggest in the tournament’s history and we’re delighted it continues to be so popular.

“We’ve had some excellent feedback from the schools and players – it was great to see so many young people showing such enthusiasm for rugby and playing with smiles on their faces.

“We’d also like to say thank you to everyone who supported the event and helped make it a great success again.”

In the Year 5 and 6 category, Clatford Primary School took the honours in the cup competition, with Wherwell Primary School winning the plate section and Balksbury Junior School taking victory in the bowl tournament.

Outstanding sportsmanship from Appleshaw St Peter’s Primary School saw them receive the fair play award.

In the Year 3 and 4 competition, Broughton Primary School took victory in the cup, while Anton Junior School secured the top prize in the plate tournament, and it was double success for the team from Roman Way Primary School, who won the bowl category and the fair play award.