Love Rugby Festival is a celebration of live music, art, sport, culture and family entertainment

Love Rugby Festival returns later this month with an exciting line-up of events, bringing residents, businesses and visitors together.

Running from June 20 to July 5, the festival will coincide with Rugby School’s Festival on the Close, offering a variety of events across the town.

Across the two-week festival, event highlights include: June 20 onwards - Rugby Artists and Makers Summer Exhibition, offers a month-long celebration of talent in Rugby; June 20 onwards - Gizmobots, brings robot sculptures to Rugby; June 22 - Paddlesport taster session allows residents to try out kayaks, canoes and paddleboards; June 27 - Salsa in the Park offers a free dance class in Whitehall Recreation Ground, with no partner or experience required.

On week two, from June 28 - Live and Loud offers a full day festival of local bands and artists performing in the Benn Hall; June 28 - Art in Dunchurch will showcase 2D and 3D work by local artists; June 30 - Rugby Triathlon Club will host a free swim taster session; July 4 - New Directions Rugby Multicultural Celebrations will host performances and workshops.

The festival concludes on July 5 at Whitehall Recreation Ground, where residents can take part in the ‘Couch to 5K’ fun run.

The new 1K fun run offers families and children aged 11 and under to take part in a shorter run.

Participants should sign up early to secure their place in the fun runs at rugby.gov.uk/loverugby

Cllr Maggie O’Rourke, Rugby Borough Council portfolio holder for partnerships and wellbeing, said: “I am looking forward to the variety of events that the council, local businesses and community groups have to offer.

“Love Rugby Festival will bring together residents and visitors, giving them the opportunity to enjoy their current hobbies and interests, as well as try something new.”

Cllr Neil Sandison, Rugby Borough Council’s Liberal Democrat group spokesperson for partnerships and wellbeing, said: “There is something for everyone at this year’s festival.

“It’s a great opportunity to get out, get involved and experience everything Rugby has to offer.”