THIS weekend sees nearly 50 teams from across South East Wales descending on the Raglan for the fourth annual Abergaven-ny Mini and Junior Ten-a-side Rugby Tournament, writes Keith Fairbank.

675 players as young as seven will be participating in what has grown to become the largest tournament of its kind in the country. Locally, clubs will be arriving from Abergavenny and Monmouth; but some are due to come from as far afield as Merthyr, Builth Wells, Cwmbran and Croesyceiliog.

Tournament Secretary Jim Aitken said this week: "We've even got one side coming from Eden Bridge in Kent. They're on tour at the moment and staying in Symonds Yat and have agreed to come down."

The under-13s to under-16s will be playing on Saturday April 29, while the mini ages from under-8s to under-12s will take to the Sports Fields, on Sunday April 30.

Mr Aitken added that a large marquee will host the award winning ceremonies, where it is hoped Gethin Jenkins, Ian Gough and other players from the Newport Gwent Dragons will be able to hand out the silverware.

Mr Aitken said: "Tradition-ally, many of the players and parents choose to camp, making for a true rugby weekend. We are grateful for St Johns Ambulance providing first aid cover and Raglan Parc Golf Club assisting with parking."

Entry for adults is only £1 during the day and £1 for the evening's entertainment, which includes two live bands on stage in the marquee. A Hog Roast meal can be purchased inside. Children accompanied by an adult enter free.