PUPILS from across North Dorset took part in a tag rugby tournament hosted at Sherborne Primary School.

Teams of Year 5 and 6 pupils from St Andrew’s Primary in Yetminster, Buckland Newton Primary School, Thornford Primary, All Saints Primary in Bishop’s Caundle and Sherborne Abbey Primary joined the hosts in a fun tournament, which emphasised the importance of fair play.

The tournament was played in two groups but it eventually came down to a final between All Saints and Sherborne Abbey. After an action-packed match, All Saints were crowned winners, with Sherborne Abbey finishing second, followed by Sherborne Primary in third and Thornford in fourth place.
Evie C from Sherborne Primary was named player of the tournament for her excellent handling skills and superb team play.

But the largest trophy of the day was the Fairplay Award, presented to St Andrew’s Primary School for their attitude to each other, the officials and their perfect approach to the tournament – despite not progressing to the final stages of the event.
Sherborne headteacher Ian Bartle said: “I am incredibly grateful to Nigel Roberts – head of All Saints, Bishop’s Caundle – for refereeing throughout the event, the eight Gryphon students who were so kind in organising the timings, scoring systems and supporting the referees.

“I also want to thank the excellent Sherborne Rugby Club for sponsoring all the trophies distributed during the tournament.
“Finally, I have to thank ALL of the children and teams for producing such a hard fought, close and highly competitive tournament – completely played with the right attitudes of fairness and sportsmanship. A huge congratulations to Bishop’s Caundle for winning this exciting competition.”