They took part in what is believed to be the largest walking rugby festival in the world. All returned with plenty of happy memories after a day celebrating one of the sport's fastest-growing and most inclusive formats.

The Kingswood RFC Walking Rugby Festival attracted 52 teams from across England and Wales, bringing together hundreds of players for a full day of friendly competition, camaraderie and community spirit across 12 pitches. Organisers describe it as the biggest walking rugby festival ever staged, with teams travelling from far and wide to be part of the event.

Among them were the Salisbury Walkers (pictured centre in green and white), who enjoyed a full programme of matches while renewing old friendships and making new ones in the welcoming atmosphere that has become a hallmark of the walking rugby community.

Walking rugby is a non-contact version of the game in which players must always keep one foot on the ground, making it safer and more accessible while retaining the skills, teamwork and enjoyment of traditional rugby. It is played by men and women of all abilities and backgrounds and has become particularly popular with older players, those returning after injury or illness, and people discovering rugby for the first time. The emphasis is firmly on enjoyment, respect, participation and physical and mental wellbeing rather than winning at all costs.

For Salisbury RFC, the trip demonstrated why walking rugby continues to flourish. While every team was keen to compete, the real success of the day was the opportunity to share the game with like-minded players from across the country in an environment where everyone is welcome.

Kingswood RFC's volunteer organisers were widely praised for staging such a large event, with excellent facilities, smooth organisation and a festival atmosphere that extended beyond the rugby itself.

The Salisbury squad would like to thank Kingswood RFC and its Walking Rugby section, the Titans, for their hospitality and for delivering an outstanding festival that showcased everything that is best about the walking game.

Salisbury RFC's walking rugby section welcomes new players throughout the year. No previous rugby experience is necessary, and sessions are open to both men and women looking for a fun, sociable way to keep active. Anyone interested in giving it a try is encouraged to contact the club for further information.