Following my earlier invitation to this year's Kingswood Rugby Festival on Saturday 5 September, I am unfortunately writing to let you know that we have made the decision to cancel this year's event.

This follows an unprecedentedly dry summer, which has resulted in our pitches becoming unplayable, as well as the RFU's decision to postpone the start of the community rugby season until mid-September. The safety of the players is our top priority and, with insufficient rain in the forecast, it doesn't look like we will be able to reach a position where we can run the festival safely at this time.

I would like to take the opportunity to thank Carter Jonas and Verde, who had offered to support the Festival as headline sponsors, and Somer Valley Farms for agreeing to keep our visitors fed and watered. We look forward to welcoming you back next year!

Wishing you a restful remainder of the summer holidays and I look forward to welcoming our pupils back for the start of the new academic year.

Best wishes

Andrew Gordon-Brown