An exciting sporting community event in Hitchin has been hailed as a huge success. Pictures by Nub News photography intern George Bigley

The popular North Herts Rugby and Netball festival returned this weekend to widespread acclaim.

The eagerly-awaited annual event is now bigger and better than ever after much hard work by the organisers over the past year - and brought the best of the rugby and netball world together with our North Herts community to celebrate sport, music and great food.

Hard-working organiser Adam Howard spoke to Nub News after the weekend. [Watch live video with organiser Adam Howard here ]

"A massive thank you to everyone who took part in the event over the weekend," said Adam, adding: "Huge thanks to our sponsors and all the volunteers that helped make the weekend such a success.

"Ten minutes before the start you have that panic that no-one is going to turn up - but thankfully 20 minutes in, there is quite a big crowd, which is always a relief. To run a night without sport on the first night was a bit of a risk - but people came down in their numbers to show that music and food is just as important.

"After a full 12 months of hard work and organisation it's over and out for NHRN 2022 - but we're already looking forward to next year's event."

Renowned local musicians were showcased at the festival, with Lawrence Hill, Dave Foster, Troi Parker Roth, SK & and The Kings and Cardinal Kings playing across Friday and Saturday.

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Mouth-watering food options were available from the acclaimed Cantinas Carnitas and Amani Kitchen - along with the brilliant Sam's Pizza and many other renowned local independents.

Watch live video with organiser Adam Howard here

A number of talented Nub News journalism and photography interns attended the event - see our website, Facebook page and social media channels soon for their must-read take on the festival, including special music and food features.

See Nub News for full details regarding the rugby and netball later this week.