Vets Fest 2025 in Tynedale
Vets Fest is more than a festival of rugby – it’s a force for change. Every pound raised by teams and regions stays in their local area, funding life-changing Wooden Spoon projects that support children and young people living with disabilities or facing disadvantage.
That means when a team pulls on their shirts, laces up their boots, and raises funds, they’re not just playing rugby – they’re helping to deliver projects in their own communities. From specialist minibuses that give children access to therapies and experiences beyond the school gates, to sensory gardens where children with complex needs can play, learn and thrive, every try scored and every donation made at Vets Fest has a direct impact close to home.
This local focus is what makes Vets Fest so powerful – a national event with regional pride at its heart, uniting the rugby family while changing lives across the UK and Ireland.
Tournament Champions
After a thrilling day on the pitch, the Vets Fest 2025 Champions were crowned:
- Scotland Men
- Essex & South East Women
Both titles were the result of impressive teamwork and planning, with thanks to captains Colin Stuart, Mark Kane and Cally Finch, alongside Vicky Flower and Gemma Wilson for their leadership and support.
Fundraising Heroes
As always, fundraising was at the heart of the day – and the teams went above and beyond. Every pound raised will directly fund local Wooden Spoon projects.
- Two teams broke the £3,000 barrier
- One topped £4,000
- Scotland Men raised an incredible £6,900
Fundraising Cup Winners:
- Men: Cumbria
- Women: Scotland
Huge congratulations to Jim Beary and Kath Vass for their efforts in rallying their squads.
Rugby Cups
On the field, the action was fast, fierce and full of smiles. The Rugby Cups went to:
- Women: Northumberland Spoon (captained by Janette Evans)
- Men: Omerta Spoon
Community Thanks
Festivals like this don’t happen without an army of volunteers and officials. Special thanks to Mark Challis, who led the referee team, and to everyone who gave their time to make the day run smoothly.
Our hosts, Tynedale RFC, provided a superb setting for the festival, and we’re grateful for their hospitality.
Behind the scenes, Wooden Spoon Northumberland’s Dennis Hetherington, Ian Dawson and Iain Stewart were instrumental in coordinating the event.
A Lasting Legacy
This year’s festival was also a moment to remember Neal “Paddy” Patterson, our much-loved men’s captain and committee member, whose spirit and passion for Wooden Spoon lives on in the heart of Vets Fest. As well as Co-Founder Peter Scott, Ronnie Richardson, John Dennison and Matt Jones.
Save the Date
Mark your calendars now – Vets Fest 2026 returns to Tynedale RFC on 26 September 2026. Expect even more rugby, community spirit and fundraising magic.