IF you have been inspired by the heroics of Team GB's women's Olympic gold medallists head down to Bridgwater's HockeyFest.

HockeyFest is coming to Bridgwater Hockey Club at Chilton Trinity this Saturday.

HockeyFest highlights the best aspects that the sport has to offer including an equal split between men and women playing and inclusive to all ages and abilities. Many clubs are seeing a range of generations taking part too.

Former Somerset schoolgirl and star of the dramatic Olympic final Maddie Hinch said: "“I got into hockey by playing rounders at school – apparently I was very dramatic diving for the ball and the teacher suggested I should go in goal in hockey.

"I hadn’t played it before then but once I had the pads on, I just learnt to love it. I found my local club, Exmouth, and began training with them.

"Within the club we had a few international players; they were my inspiration growing up.

"I advise everyone to get involved with hockey as soon as possible. It’s a great sport to watch, as a group we always talk about inspiring people to get involved with the sport and these events are perfect to get the nation playing.”

In 2015, 335 clubs started the season with a bang by taking part in HockeyFest and over a quarter saw a growth in membership numbers from the previous season.

Since 2011 the number of junior players has increased by 64 per cent as more people have been inspired since London 2012 when Great Britain women’s hockey team took home a bronze medal.

Rich Beer, director of development at England Hockey said: “After this summer’s magnificent sporting success, many people are keen to try a new sport and want to have fun while staying fit and active.

"HockeyFest gives families the ideal opportunity to visit their local hockey club and see what it has to offer all ages and abilities.

“Over the last four years, we’ve seen a very encouraging uplift in grassroots participation and building on this success, we’ll be getting the new season off to a flying start by welcoming even more people to the hockey community.

"Hailed by many clubs as a ‘social festival’ that brings together like-minded people, HockeyFest is a terrific way for new members, both old and young and from all different backgrounds, to get involved on their terms, be it playing, coaching or volunteering; there are so many opportunities on offer.”

HockeyFest is taking place at Bridgwater Hockey Club, Chilton Trinity School on Saturday, September 3 between 10.30am and 3.30pm.