Despite two hours of torrential rain more than 400 children took part in a series of matches for their rugby clubs across different counties.

On Saturday, October 16, children from across Hertfordshire, Buckinghamshire, Northamptonshire, Oxfordshire and Warwickshire played in The Oakman Cup - a rugby tournament held at Allianz Park, home of current Premiership leaders Saracens RFC.

The Oakman Cup was created and organised by Oakman Inns & Restaurants, one of the UK’s fastest growing pub companies, widely recognised as being one of the best Community-focussed pub groups in the hospitality industry.

There were players from St Albans, Abingdon, Beaconsfield, Leamington, Towcester Tring and Witney.

The President of RFU Peter Baines said: "I think this must be among the largest, privately-funded Minis rugby festivals in the country. Oakman’s CEO, Peter Borg-Neal, and the wholehearted support that he and his staff give their local communities and the rugby clubs they support is a wonderful thing.

"The event was a great showcase of the new rules of play and changes to Age Grade Rugby. Peter and Oakman Inns, recognise that our rugby clubs provide a safe, fun, friendly activity for both children and adults, beyond the school gates into the local community.

"Playing rugby teaches these great kids what we call TREDS - Teamwork, Respect, Enjoyment, Discipline and Sportsmanship and I’ve seen it all here today. Who knows - I might also have seen a couple of future Internationals as well. Well done Oakman Inns."