The annual Cricket 8s Festival in Oamaru is growing in popularity and will be staged again next year, after the event attracted eight North Otago primary schools.
The festival, organised by the North Otago Cricket Association, saw teams of eight-a-side compete in four hours of cricket. Co-organiser and North Otago representative player Ed Smith said the day had been ''really popular'' with the schools.
''This is the second year we have held this and we will probably do it again next year.''
North Otago players had been tutoring children from local schools in preparation for the event, Mr Smith said.
Children from St Joseph's, Ardgowan, Omarama, Weston, Pembroke, Fenwick, Totara and Papakaio schools took part on the day, and under the rules of the tournament every player had a chance to both bat and to bowl.
''It's just a fun day out.''
