AN ALL-NEW family day has been organised for this year’s Bournemouth 7s festival to attract more youngsters and their parents to the event.

The Sunday Family Day will see community partners such as AFC Bournemouth, BH Live Active and the RAF putting on a variety of fun activities designed for the whole family to enjoy.

The festival, now in its ninth year, has established itself as the flagship festival for sports teams from around the country.

While the event has always welcomed families to its Chapel Gate site near Bournemouth Airport, festival owner Roger Woodall claims the 2016 event offers more than ever before.

He said: “‘Bournemouth 7s is an exciting event whether you’re eight or eighty, but this year we really wanted to add more to the experience for the younger visitors and their parents.

“The festival is well-known for the sporting aspect, but it has become so much more than a sports festival since 2008. Our live music offering is stronger than ever, the variety of arenas is fantastic, and we want people of all ages to get involved and even inspired by what is on display.”

As well as the dedicated family activities, Sunday plays host to rugby, netball, hockey and dodgeball finals, and Roger believes that the mix of competitive and social cups provide a positive message for any potential sport stars.

“The skill level and intensity varies across cups and sports, and that is great for kids to see. We have elite-level athletes alongside groups of mates looking to just have fun. It’s a good way of introducing kids to sport in an inclusive way,” he explained.

The recently announced iPro Sports Zone will host a number of interactive games and competitions, as well as funfair rides, inflatables, and free face painting for kids on Sunday between 10am-5pm.

Premier League side AFC Bournemouth will be in attendance, along with Steve Fletcher and the club’s mascot, Cherry Bear.

Bournemouth 7s takes place this May bank holiday weekend on May 27, 28 and 29. For further details, visit bournemouth7s.com.