Quayside crowd has a scrummy time

Rugby fans have been enjoying a day of free family fun on Exeter’s quayside to celebrate the Women’s Rugby World Cup coming to the city.

The event, organised by the City Council, featured local rugby players competing in dragon boat racing, and was attended by players from the France Women’s Rugby World Cup squad.

Fans were able to take photos, get autographs and interact with the players. And for those who wanted to get active there was a chance to have a go at friendly, fun T1 rugby sessions and find out about the Strive 25 programme taking place across the city.

There was face painting, live music and dance, theatrical performances from Nuts & Volts, and a chance to dress up and have fun with the Royal Albert Memorial Museum (RAMM). There was also a Chiefs Merchandise Trailer and rugby gear and fan merchandise available to purchase.

Cllr Duncan Wood, Lead Councillor for Leisure Services & Healthy Living, said: “This was an absolutely brilliant event. The community engagement for the Women’s Rugby World Cup has been fantastic in Exeter, and it was great to see so many happy faces down on the Quay today.”

The Women’s Rugby World Cup started on 22 August, with Exeter one of eight host cities. Sandy Park is hosting seven games, including two quarter-finals. As a result, the city has welcomed players and fans from nine countries as Exeter is put on the international stage.

This weekend, attention turns to Sandy Park once again as New Zealand take on Japan in one of the most anticipated clashes of the tournament, promising another memorable occasion for rugby supporters in Exeter.