Former Chipping Norton 'Mini' Ellie Wilson is set to present players' medals at Chipping Norton’s 'biggest' ever rugby festival.

700 young players, hailing from 58 teams throughout six counties, are preparing to compete in the event.

The future stars will partake in Chipping Norton Rugby Club's third Festival of Rugby on Sunday, April 28.

Set for an exciting day of play, the club will welcome back 16-year-old former player Ellie Wilson, who six years ago was a 'Mini' player learning the ropes.

Earlier this month the teen lined up for the England Under 18s side, which came runners up to France in the Six Nations Festival in Colwyn Bay.

She now plays rugby at Gosford All Blacks and Hartpury College, where she is studying PE, business and psychology at A Level.

Miss Wilson said: “I always love coming back to the club, usually to watch my 18-year-old brother, Tom, or dad, Ben, line up for the Colts and Men’s teams respectively, but Sunday will be extra special.

“I played Minis rugby at Chippy from the age of five to 13 and learned so much in the process, so I am delighted that I will get the chance to celebrate the achievements of the many under 10 and under 11 players who will be taking part in this year’s festival.”

The festival also acts as a fundraising event for the club, with the takings going towards delivering essential courses for the club's volunteer coaches, as well as improving the club's pitches.

The event will commence at 9.30am and will host players from as far as Berkshire.

Backing the event are several key supporters, including the headline sponsor, Diddly Squat Farm Shop.

Other sponsors include Brethertons Solicitors, SE Solicitors, Radnor Hills, Bloxham School, Cokethorpe School, QCR Recycling Equipment, Hopkins Construction and Nicholsons.

The Festival is a community event and is open to the general public.

Festival-goers can look forward to an array of refreshments from pitch-side bars, as well as options from onsite caterers.

Duncan Midwood, chair of the minis, said: "Our annual festival is a great opportunity for us to showcase what this wonderful game has to offer young people, and we are delighted that Ellie is going to be with us on Sunday to celebrate our fantastic end of season finale.

“Ellie’s achievements from being a Chipping Norton Mini to becoming an England 18 international show just how important events like today are in helping to shape the next generation of players, as well as teaching essential life skills and core values such as teamwork and respect.”

For more information about the Festival, interested parties can visit the Chipping Norton Rugby Club website.