THE party started at the Bournemouth 7s festival yesterday, with bumper crowds flocking to the Chapel Gate site.

Organisers say 2019's festival, which continues today and tomorrow, is set to become the biggest in its 12th year history.

Billed as the world's biggest sport and music festival, the Daily Echo-supported festival promises around 30,000 revellers and top class rugby, including the Jamaica 7s National Team and the British Army 7s rugby squad.

Rapper Professor Green is headlining this year.

He said: "My good friend Example played the festival last year and told me how good it was so it was a no brainer when I was asked to headline this year. I can’t wait.”

Other acts lined up include England rugby pro and DJ James Haskell.

During the day, rugby, netball, hockey, dodgeball and volleyball teams will complete in a range of tournaments across the 65-acre site.

By night, the festival offers a variety of themed arenas offering the best in bass, funky disco, dance and RnB including The Bunker, The Funky Forest, The Big Top, the Colourseum and The Yard as well as a VIP area.