16 sides have entered the competition which is split into 4 groups on a round-robin basis. The top two teams will then progress to the Cup quarter finals before the winners move on to the semis and then the final. The third-placed teams meanwhile will play off in the Plate semis and then final.

Group A consists of Avon, Avonvale, Midsomer Norton and the Rebels. Group B sees Frome, Melksham, Oldfield and Corsham pitted together. There is always a “group of death” which this year consists of Trowbridge, Chippenham, Devizes and Old Sulians in Group C. Finally Group D is made up of Bradford on Avon, Walcot, Bath Saracens and the Barbarians.

Team registration starts from 9am with the first round matches kicking off simultaneously on the two pitches at 10:30am. Matches will continue every 20 minutes throughout the morning and afternoon before the Plate final at 16:35pm and Cup final at 17:00pm.

This season’s tournament has an historic first as it also sees the inaugural Women’s 7s competition. This is being run in parallel and is being hosted by Bath Ladies at Lambridge for the group stage matches, before the Women’s final shifts to Hicks Field at 16:30pm.

There will be plentiful car parking at Avon’s ground, with a BBQ running all day and the bar open for refreshments. Music and entertainment are also being laid on through the day and into the evening. All local clubs and interested spectators are welcome to come along to watch some rugby and to participate in the activities.