TeapotOne Rugby 7’s & Family Fun Day at Imber Court, Sat 19th May 2012

After a lot of stress, a lot of sweat, and a lot of preparation, Sat 19th May 2012 saw the inaugural TeapotOne Rugby 7's & Family Fun Day finally arrive at Imber Court in Esher, Surrey.

With the weather looking like it may actually play ball, it was a bright and early start (although not quite as early as I'd planned due to some unforeseen 'packing' issues ;-$). After arriving at the ground and making my apologies to Woody for being a tad late, we set to work putting up signage around Imber Court, hopefully leading the whords of people through our gates during the day.

The first of the vendors began arriving early doors from about 0730hrs, each needing to know where to set up and where to get various bits and bobs. They were shortly followed by the first of the rugby teams, so at least we'd have one match that day! But I needn't have worried as pretty soon the day was beginning to take shape.

We soon had the TeapotOne stall up and the various games and prizes set out for everyone to play. Russ, Gav and I had managed to accrue quite a selection of prices from local businesses in the lead up to the day, which included:

• A days paintball for 10, including 100 paintballs & lunch – kindly donated by www.prioryevents.com
• A signed Martin Johnson England World Cup Winners framed team list, and 'Dream Team' select signed by Rory Underwood – both kindly donated by www.impulsedecisions.com
• 2 cinema tickets – kindly donated by local ODEON cinema
• Signed Ellen MacArthur biog "Full Circle – kindly donated by Ellen MacArthur
• Gold Club – Kindly donated by Sandown's Direct Golf UK www.direct-golf.co.uk/stores/sandown/

and loads more.

Soon we had Radio Jackie arrive and setup, and there was music filling the air as the crowds began to arrive. I've got to give a massive thanks to Radio Jackie as their infectious spirit really helped to give the day and great fun factor, with their non-stop fun and games getting the crowds involved throughout the day.

Also a big thank you to the crew from Esher fire station who turned up in the afternoon with their engine and a 'fire saftey' display. Although meant for the kids, it was apparent that the lads in their uniforms were more of an attraction to a certain element of the crowd!

We also had crew from the traffic and dog divisons turn up, and the air soon filled with the sound of sirens as the kids (and dad's) enjoyed playing with the blue lights and two tones.

We were lucky enough to be paid a visit by the Met's helicopter who buzzed the rugby pitch before lunch, dazzling the crowds with a fine display of flying.

All through the day the various rugby teams played each other with some fine displays of skill. Even our own Mr Turner donned his boots and braved a game, although I reckon he regretted it by half time!

By the end of the day, there were two teams set for the final of the inaugural TeapotOne Rugby 7's trophy. But who would it be?

As luck would have it the TeapotOne 'ringers' had deservedly won their way to play Cobham in the final match and it was a hard, fast paced and action packed 20 mins. Unfortunately for us, the Cobham lad's won out in the end to lift the cup with a brilliant performance which really got the support of the crowds who'd gathered to watch.

Well done lads, it was a great display and you're all worthy winners.

After the final we had the balloon race release where 200 hundred hellium filled balloons were sent skyward to make their own way on the winds.

Throughout the day we'd been selling balloons with tickets attached that had their won unique reference code. By the end of June, the furthest travelled balloon will win it's owner the signed Martin Johnson World Cup winning team print, so if you find one of these balloons, take note of the ref. number and email info@teapotone.com with it. Once verified, I'll send you a prize too!

And that was that! A lovely end to a successful day and hopefully all those involved had had a good time. We raised just over £1500 on the day which will go a long way in fuel around the world so a massive thank you to everyone for coming along.

You can view more pics form the day in the gallery section of this site, or by viewing the album on the TeapotOne facebook page.