The new Southern Nomads’ Ballakilley pitches - or ’The Field of Dreams’ as the Rushen site is becoming known - hosted its first tournament for youth teams from clubs across the island

More than 140 rugby players aged from seven to 11 took part in the tournament.

Dave Parkes, from Southern Nomads, said the competition saw ’some brilliant rugby’ despite strong winds.

’The pace of development on the Ballakilley site has remained high over recent weeks, with an 80-space car park prepared and temporary showers and toilets in place awaiting the final connection of services to the site,’ Mr Parkes said.

’This event very much marks only the end of the beginning for the Ballakilley sports facility, as the first phase of the development draws to a close.’

There were hot dogs from Mal’s Butchers in Port Erin, barista coffee and cakes for the players, parents and spectators.

The tournament was sponsored by Cain’s Advocates and the proceeds are earmarked to further development of the site. The charitable fund that has supported this to date has little left for the immediate future.