The day of the Sidmouth Under-10s first tour dawned with the sun shining brightly and temperatures rising, and not just the weather, writes Mark Williams.

We all congregated at the Premier Inn at Hayle in Cornwall where the tour shirts were handed out then we took the short walk to Hayle RFC for our first match.

Due to a coinciding surfing event, Hayle were short on numbers so it was agreed they could bolster their ranks with four or five of their Under-11s.

This in no way daunted our brave boys who duly set about their opposite numbers like boys possessed!

Thence commenced what can only be described as a one-sided try fest in favour of Sidmouth. In truth I had lost count of the score well before the end, but needless to say everyone enjoyed themselves.

Then, after some good Cornish fare (pasty) it was off to the beach for surfing lessons where perfect weather and sea conditions ensured maximum fun was had by all with only myself failing to stand up (does kneeling count?).

Details of that evening will remain ‘on tour’, however, just mention after eights and I am sure a few red faces will be on show!

The next morning after a hearty breakfast (who says bacon, eggs and chocolate muffins don’t go together?), it was off to Redruth, a notoriously strong side, for our second game.

Any fears that the boys would be bleary eyed from the previous nights activities was soon dispelled as they tore into Redruth with some of the fiercest tackling I have seen from them this year.

This approach totally unsettled the hosts allowing Sidmouth a regular supply of ball which the used to great effect running in seven tries to the hosts three.

It most certainly was a 100 per cent successful tour both on and off the field.

Special thanks to Becca, Kati and Laura, our tour committee who organised everything and to one of our sponsors for very generously paying for the surfing.

That is now the end of our season, but if you feel inspired to join us next season you will be made very welcome when we assemble again for another season in September.