FAST-paced energetic and exciting touch rugby action enthralled a large crowd of 1,900 people who went along to Yenz’s Rugby Rush at Crediton Rugby Club on Saturday, July 5.

They were there to celebrate Exeter Chiefs captain Jack Yeandle’s testimonial year, Jack having played for the Chiefs for over 10 years.

Gates opened for the tournament at 12 noon and the first match got underway at 1pm.

Teams taking part included 1314 Masons Kings All Stars, FDS Warriors, Lean Sharks, Gravita Eagles, DPAS Barbarians, UK Protection Bulls, Hamblys Hotsteppers and Bridge Fliers.

Each team for the seven-a-side games comprised of 10 players, with two female players at all times, one non-rugby player at all times, rugby players and ex-pros wearing white socks, sponsors and non-rugby players wearing pink socks.

As well as many Chiefs players there were also players from Crediton Rugby Club and some who had played in British, English and Irish Lions matches, plus other high ranking players.

Among the big names of rugby royalty were Ethan Roots, Dave Ewers, Lagi Tuima, Matt Banahan, Jacques Vermeulen, Jemma Dymond and the man himself, Jack Yeandle.

Young people and adults alike enjoyed collecting autographs and selfies from players on the day.

Games were seven minutes each way with a two-minute half time.

The FDS Warriors led by Captain Jack Nowell were crowned champions in a spectacular final after beating the Lean Sharks.

Refreshments were available all day, bars were open and a band played to entertain and take the event into the evening.

The Testimonial is raising funds for British Heart Foundation and Pancreatic Cancer UK.

Jack chose the charity British Heart Foundation to support during his testimonial year after losing his best friend to a cardiac arrest over 10 years ago.

It was at Crediton Rugby Club where Jack started his playing career.