THE rugby wasn't the only reason for the fantastic atmosphere at Newport RFC's first game of the season.

For as well as the thrills and spills of the game, matchgoers could enjoy the club's innovative tented Family Village.

Launched two years ago, the Family Village has boosted attendance at Rodney Parade and provides more of a family day out.

Face painting and balloon-making kept the younger fans entertained ahead of the game, while the more adventurous took part in inflatable games and rode a rodeo bull.

The crowd was whipped up into a frenzy before the action even started with pre-match entertainment and drinks - and refreshment tents ensured the good times rolled throughout the afternoon as the Black and Ambers Newport won 50-22 against the Green Army of Caerphilly.

A club spokeswoman said the tented village had been a major success, with attendance rising from 1,000 fans three years ago to more than 7,000 last year and season ticket sales growing from 400 to 4,000.

The club aims to pack out the 12,000 capacity ground with its new venture.

"The Family Village was a success all last season," the spokeswoman said. "We have expanded it and now provide a whole afternoon's entertainment for the whole family. Everyone is welcome and it works very well."

Mini van der Westhuizens were encouraged to hone their skills with the club's Gateway Rugby scheme, where community development officers trained the youngsters to mimic their heroes.

Schools have also been invited to tour the ground on match days.

But Newport's marketing director Simon Lee said that, despite the new look, they hadn't forgotten the traditional fan. * In the picture: Fans enjoy the supporters' village