News

Everything you need to know for #VetsFest24

Saturday 28 September 2024 – Old Reigatian RFC, Geoffrey Knight Fields, Park Ln, Reigate RH2 8JX

Timetable

Friday

  • 13:00 Gates Open
    • Parking: Old Reigatians RFC
      • Cars must be moved to The Omnibus Building, Lesbourne Road, Reigate, RH2 7LD on Saturday AM
        • Bag Drop and Shuttle Bus available
  • 18:00 – Friday Night Spoon Karaoke – Door open
  • 23:30 – Doors Close

Saturday

  • 08:00 – Campers Breakfast Van Open
  • 08:30 – Gates open
  • 08:30 – All Kit collection
  • 9:00-12:30 – Team Photos
    • Please come to the photo area at a time that suits you
  • 10:00 – First match kicks off
  • 11:30 -11.50 – All Teams Large Group Photo
  • 18:30 – Presentation
  • 19:00 – Evening Entertainment

Event Overview

  • VetsFest24: Over 1,200 attendees and 28 teams from the UK and Ireland.
  • Competing for the title of VetsFest Overall Champions and Teams must do well in both the Fundraising and Rugby Competitions.

Schedule & Matches

  • Match details and results available online: Tournify link.
  • Download the Tournify App (Apple/Android) for match alerts.

Parking & Arrival

  • Gates open at 08:30.
  • Parking: The Omnibus Building, Lesbourne Road, Reigate, RH2 7LD.
  • Short walk to the ground across Priory Park.
  • Shuttle service for mobility issues or heavy equipment.
  • Blue Badge parking available at the clubhouse.

Entry to the Ground

  • Have your ticket (printed or on your device) ready for scanning.
  • You’ll get a wristband—keep it on throughout VetsFest.

Playing Shirts & Pre-Ordered Kit

  • Collect your VetsFest24 playing shirt and pre-ordered items from the marquee before your team photo and first match from 8.30am
  • Don’t collect for others—bring your proof of purchase.

Fundraising

  • Over £60,000 raised for disadvantaged and disabled children.
  • Track fundraising on the JustGiving page.

Spectators

  • Spectator tickets available for friends, family, and well-behaved dogs on leads.

Food & Drinks

  • Variety of food vendors on-site all day until late.
  • Personal packed lunches allowed, but no alcohol (except for raffle donations).
  • Water tap available to fill bottles.

Rugby Format & Rules

  • 15-a-side games, 10 minutes each way, rolling subs.
  • After group stages, all teams will move on to Cup, Plate, Bowl, or Shield competitions.
  • Key rules: 1½ metre scrum push limit; bibbed players must kneel after a tackle.
  • Professional medical team and marshalls on each pitch.

Changing Rooms

  • Men’s changing rooms: Under the main clubhouse.
  • Women’s changing rooms: Wallfield College clubhouse next to pitch 7.

Can’t Attend?

  • Let organisers know if you’re unable to attend, and they’ll send your kit to you.

Event Village

  • Raffle, merchandise, and activities (e.g., Tackle-o-meter, kit personalisation).
  • Donate unwanted boots/sports gear for charity.

Social Media

  • Share event photos on social media @charityspoon.
  • User the # #HelpingKidsThroughRugby and #TacklingDisadvantage

We look forward to seeing everyone at VetsFest24!