Rugby stars of the future congregate

For the 12th consecutive year, Langley School is proud to host the National Under 15 Rugby Festival. This year, the festival takes place on the 18th and 19th October, with 15 teams competing for the ultimate prize. Teams include last year’s worthy winner, Wellington College, and a host of others including Brighton College, Advantage Rugby Academy, Langley School and Ipswich School. Heritage Wills will again be the headline sponsor, and Langley School is proud to continue their association with the leading provider of will-writing, probate and power of attorney services in the region.

This year, the off-pitch competition will also be buzzing, with a host of famous names attending as pitch-side vendors, exhibitors and hospitality providers. The Hospitality Hall (sponsored by Alan Boswell) VIP lunch on Saturday 18th October will be catered by Brasteds, owner of Caistor Hall with its well-earned Michelin Star for Mark Poynton at Caistor Hall. The lunch will also feature access to an exclusive wine tasting hosted by Flint Vineyard. A signed pair of rugby boots worn in the Six Nations 2024-25 season by Northampton Saints and England fly half Fin Smith will be auctioned during the event, with proceeds going to a rugby bursary provided via the Langley Educational Foundation as well as to My Name’5 Doddie Foundation, raising funds for Motor Neurone Disease following the recent diagnosis of England rugby legend Lewis Moody.

The Retail Village will contain a host of renowned local artisans. Browse handcrafted gifts and pitchside essentials from local makers. Whether shopping for keepsakes or discovering something new, the Retail Village is a celebration of community craftsmanship. There will also be a host of local and national businesses with a presence over the weekend such as another key sponsor Access Facilities Management who will be bringing their expertise and willingness to engage with spectators around their individual business and personal security requirements.

On-site food trucks such as Phat KAO, Elsie’s Pizza, Dirty Fryer Boys, and Nourish Café will deliver hot eats to hungry spectators, and pop-up bar The Langley Arms will keep the thirst at bay. Award-winning Flint Vineyard is the exclusive wine partner for the event, with their wines showcased both at the wine tasting and for sale in the bustling Retail Village.

For anyone with children interested in honing their rugby skills, the team from Varsity Nine will be running skills drills during the weekend.