MORE than 250 school children scrummed down for a tag rugby festival in Fareham this week.

Twenty four teams from 16 primary schools across the Fareham borough entered the event organised by the Fareham School Sport Partnership in association with Fareham Heathens Rugby Club.

And it was Castle A who lifted the cup after a narrow 2-0 victory over Crofton Anne Dale. Castle A will go on to represent Fareham at the Hampshire Minin Games in June.

Before the tournament, which was sponsored by food company Rich's, Fareham School Sport Partnership provided Primary and Junior schools in Fareham with five weeks of tag rugby coaching by qualified rugby coaches.

Tag rugby is played with velcro tags attached to a belt worn around the waist. A tackle is made when a tag is removed.

The plate final saw Whiteley A lose to Crofton Hammond A while Wicor B beat Wallisdean A to win the Bowl final.

The jug final was contested between St Jude's B and Redlands A with the latter triumphing.

Co-organiser Mathew Lane said: "All schools played very well with some outstanding displays. The behaviour and sportsmanship of all competitors was excellent."

This tournament was part of a programme funded by The Big Lottery Fund aimed at increasing competitive opportunities for primary and junior school children. Other sports included in the programme are hockey, cricket and athletics.