Let the games begin: Children get sporty in Houlton for free day of community fun

The Houlton Youth Games returned this month, proving a huge hit thanks to partner participation.

More than 100 children got involved in sports, games and activities at the sports pitches at Dollman Farm on Friday.

The free event was organised by Houlton’s master developer Urban&Civic in collaboration with Rugby Borough Council’s Play Rangers, as well as support from Warwickshire Police and companies Stepnell and Preim.

Activities includes archery, obstacle courses, a tug of war, inflatables, and more, with something to appeal to all ages from four to 18.

This year also featured extra entertainment in the form of a community tag rugby match, forming part of celebrations taking place across the year to mark what would have been the 100th anniversary of Rugby Radio Station.

The station was decommissioned in 2002 and is now home to Houlton School, but remains historically significant.

Elly Hemus, Community Development Lead at Urban&Civic, said: “The Houlton Youth Games is testament to the power of partner participation and we're hugely grateful to everyone who got involved to make it such a success.

"It was wonderful to see so many children and families there - with many returning having taken part in previous years. Everyone's already excited to do it again next year, and we can't wait to do it all again."

To find out more about other forthcoming events and activities at Houlton, visit the Houlton App at https://my.houltonrugby.co.uk/whats-on