Rugby ace James Fleming returned to his Perthshire roots this weekend to help coach a new generation of players.
The Scotland 7s hero hosted a mini festival for his old junior team at Perth’s North Inch on Sunday morning.
The former Perthshire Rugby player, fresh from his success in the World Rugby Sevens Series, gave a motivational talk to the Mini Section teams which ranged in age from P3 to P7.
Mini section head Carol Ann Rose said: “Our young players are really excited that James has taken time out to come down and cheer on the home teams in our tournament.
“James’ visit reinforces to our teams that dreams can come true.”
A full-time member of the Scotland 7s squad, James has touched down more than 80 times. He came through the ranks of Perthshire Rugby from training with the Minis as a junior, to become a Premier Three Player of the Season in 2008/09.
The tournament, which included a barbecue and other attractions, was part of a weekend-long feast of fun and games organised by the Perthshire Rugby group. The centrepiece of the weekend was Saturday’s ever popular Beer Festival.
The fund-raising event, sponsored by Tan International, was held in a marquee on North Inch and was blessed with sunshine and blue skies.
The good weather helped lure thousands of people to the park.
Live music from Perthshire Brass got the afternoon under way, with a range of family-friendly attractions including a climbing wall, bike track, and a Rugby 7s tournament.
The day was brought to a close with a Big Bash dance featuring music from Perth’s Solid Gold Band.
Alan Martin, director of main sponsor Tan International, said: “We are committed to integration and support of our community and we’ve supported many causes and events over the years.
“We are proud to be the main sponsor of Perth Beer Festival, a fantastic community-fundraising event, once again.”
The weekend began with a comedy night on Friday featuring broadcaster Fred MacAulay and Bruce Fumey – his first gig since losing out as a Green Party candidate in the local election on Thursday.
