AFTER some stunning performances in Rio, one of the Olympic hockey stars who helped Team GB strike gold by scoring two goals in the final will be at Corsham Hockey Club to help celebrate HockeyFest. 

Alex Danson will be joining the club at the Springfield Centre on Saturday from 10.30am-12pm as they open their doors to players who have been inspired to pick up the sport. 

Running from August 20 - September 11, the three-week nation wide festival celebrates the social and friendly aspect of playing hockey and with two gold medals at the Olympics and EuroHockey Championships, more people than ever want to give the sport a go. 

Rich Beer, director of development at England Hockey, said: "After this summer's magnificent sporting success, many peope 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 as a clubs a 'social festival' that brings together like-minded people, HockeyFest is a terrific way for new members, both old and young from all different backgrounds to get involved on their terms - be it playing, coaching or volunteering."

In 2015, an impressive 365 clubs started the season with a bang by takin part in the festival and more than a quarter saw a growth in membership numbers from the previous season. 

For more information about HockeyFest visit www.greatbritainhockey.co.uk/PlayHockey.