GREAT Malvern primary school children have won the first district-wide tag-rugby tournament.

Despite being subjected to verbal abuse and physical threats at their school playing field, as recently reported in the Malvern Gazette, the children from Years 4 and 5 pooled their talents and won the competition through good teamwork.

Claire Smout, Year 4 teacher and PE co-ordinator, said they were pleased to be the first school named on the trophy.

"I was really proud of them, especially at the moment when we need some positive news," she said.

The aim of the tournament, which took place at Malvern Rugby Club last Tuesday, was to promote a healthy lifestyle through exercise and a good diet.

Organised by Malvern Hills District Council, Worcestershire Health Authority and Malvern Rugby Club, more than 300 children took part. It was backed by the British Heart Foundation.

Gary Tolley, chairman of Malvern Youth Rugby Club, said they had a brilliant day.

"This was the first time we've done a festival like this in co-operation with a partnership," he said.

"The whole reason was to encourage more children to take up sport. It was not just about rugby, although if this doesn't encourage children into the sport I'd be surprised, but the aim was to get kids on the move."

The scheme began last September when coaches from Malvern Rugby Club went out to schools to teach children how to play a non-contact version of the game.

"It can be played by people aged five up to 85 because there's no contact at all and no collisions. Players wear a belt with Velcro on which tags are attached and the idea is to grab the tag rather than the ball. Speed, agility and ball-control are all important but team work is the key," said Mr Tolley.

If you would like to take up rugby, the new season at Malvern Rugby Club begins on Sunday, September 2. Registration is on Saturday, September 1 and anyone aged between six and 18 is invited.