Hampstead Rugby Club players and coaches who made the trip to Yorkshire over the bank holiday weekend

MORE than 300 children, parents and coaches from one of the fastest growing rugby clubs in central London hit the road over the bank holiday weekend when they went on tour to Yorkshire.

The two-night trip saw Under-8s to Under-12s squads from Hampstead Rugby Club play in a festival held in Dinnington, while their Under-13s to Under-15s sides took part in a club competition in Harrogate.

The tour marked the end of another successful campaign, and Under-13s player Fitz de Soto, who lives in Fitzrovia, said he loved every minute of the away days – which also saw the young players enjoy a host of outdoor activities, including wall climbing, zip wires and water rafting.

He said: “It was one of the best weekends ever. We are one big family who support each other on and off the pitch. This trip was a lot of fun and made our friendships even stronger. It was a great end to the season.”

James Martin playing for Hampstead’s Under-13s

And when it came time to focus on the rugby, the players yet again delivered. “The Under-11s played their best rugby to date and ran circles around their opposition,” said their coach Walter Ladwig. “After 32 weeks, the season has come to a close on a high. I couldn’t be more proud of these kids.”

The image of youngsters honing their rugby skills on Hampstead Heath has become iconic in Camden. But despite the club name, Hampstead RFC’s reach stretches far and wide, with over 100 new players from across the capital – and across all age groups – joining this season alone.

Chairman of the club’s juniors, James Farmer, said: “This season has been topped off by a hugely successful tour to Yorkshire. Over 300 parents and children headed north to take on some mighty, yet hugely hospitable, opponents.

Will Bell in action for the Under-14s side

“After a full weekend of rugby, we won more than we lost, which is always a good sign. But really it wasn’t all about playing, it was about having fun, making new friends and belonging to one big family.”

Inviting new faces to join the club, James added: “This north London rugby club is growing way beyond expectations. It is the Heath’s showcase of happy children of all sizes and backgrounds, playing rugby and getting fit on a Saturday morning. The new season starts in September, all are welcome.”

Hampstead RFC welcomes players of all ages and gender. Visit www.joinhampsteadrugby.co.uk