Carlisle Rugby Club hosted a Tri-Counties Girls’ Rugby Festival with more than 200 players taking part.

Girls from Cumbria, Durham and Northumberland took part in the Under-15 and Under-18 squads, playing seven-a-side and 15-a-side games. 

This is the third festival, with the first two previously hosted by the other two counties.

The event was organised by Carlisle Cougars’ head coach Sam Meakin, who provided the hospitality afterwards. 

Sam said: “It was a real success and a lot of the girls had a fun day playing rugby. The Carlisle girls have made great progress since the first festival at Tynedale in February.

“The one we have just held was the last of three festivals. Unfortunately, we couldn’t make the second event in Northumberland because of the bad weather.”

In addition, the Warwick Road club also hosted the Cumbria County womens’ first assessment session afterwards.

Carlisle had five players in the girls squads. Poppi Bowe, Lily Gallagher and Jo McKeown in the Cumbria Under-15s, all of whom only started playing this season.

Jess Hetherington and Lauren Forlow were in the Cumbria Under-18 side.

Lauren also plays for the Cougars as well, and Jess has only picked a ball up this season.

Sam added: “Well done to all those who took part, and thanks to the Cumbria Referees Society for providing the officials.”

Carlisle are looking for any girls who are interested in playing the game. Sam can be contacted on 07810 331800 or via the club.