IT was a victorious trip for Upton U14s last week as they were crowned Plate Champions at the famous Hilversum Rugby Festival in the Netherlands over the Easter weekend. 

A 22-man squad left Upton ahead of an 18-hour round-trip to Hilversum to take part in the International Youth Rugby Festival.

The Hilversum International Youth Rugby Festival is a one-day festival that’s been running for over 20 years and over 80 teams from across the UK and Northern Europe take part every year. 

Lots of local clubs in the Worcestershire area have ventured over to Hilversum in recent years but not many have gone and tasted success like Upton, who won the U14 Plate competition.

Upton RFC played a number of teams from Belgium, the Netherlands and Wales to remain undefeated and eventually be crowned winners.

Youth Club chairman Peter Dobbin was thrilled with the team's win but was also keen to praise those at Hilversum for hosting another 'wonderful' tournament.

"On behalf of Upton RFC U14s thank you so much for the hospitality shown to us during the festival. The organisation, facilities and entertainment was wonderful. Thank you again."