On Sunday 27 September, St Mary with St Alban's Church hosted the Teddington Rugby World Cup Parish Fete in Udney Hall Gardens.

The fete, which was opened by Tony Diprose, ex-England player and Harlequins coach, brought the local community together to celebrate the tournament taking place on our doorstep.

Fuelled by burger or hot dog, delicious home-made bakes, tea, coffee or wine and beer (the grown ups!), there was something for everyone of all ages, from bouncing on inflatables; to perfecting your rugby passes or playing tag; knocking the rugby ball off the coconut shy; hooking ducks; hulaing hoops; pony riding; face painting; flag and cup making and much more!

An amazing day, made all the more special because it was completely free, a gift from the church, including a free raffle to win a RWC ball signed by England players: Anthony Watson, Geoff Parling and Sam Burgess.

Rev Joe Moffatt said of the afternoon: "From the moment the Bishop caught the high-ball, kicked by the England international Tony Diprose, I knew this was going to be wonderful occasion.  And so it proved with hundreds of people coming along  to enjoy the many fun activities laid on. I was particularly pleased with our decision to offer it all for free, creating a wonderful community spirit and an uplifting dynamic of goodwill, generosity and gratitude."

Huge thanks must go to the brilliant organisers; Georgia Doran and Hannah O'Neill, to Ian Glover and everyone who helped ensure we all had a fantastic, sporty, rugby-themed afternoon together.

A video and pictures, which capture the day beautifully, are available below.

View the video

View the photographs