The North Gloucestershire Combination’s showpiece Senior Cup final at Kingsholm ended in disarray after finishing five minutes early due to a crowd disturbance.

Longlevens, who were leading Matson 31-7, were awarded the trophy after the decision was taken to abandon the game.

In a statement, Andy Payne, the outgoing treasurer of the North Gloucestershire Combination and the driving force behind the end-of-season cup competitions, said: “The Combination rules state that if an abandonment of a game is after 60 minutes, then the team winning at this point will be the victors."

Payne said it was the right decision to end the game early following what he described as an "unsavoury issue" in the crowd.

“These events will overshadow what was a wonderful day with families, friends and supporters enjoying the sunshine and all the activities around the fan zone," his statement continued.

“The stadium was immediately closed and all spectators were asked to leave the ground.”

Payne now fears that Sunday may be the last time that the traditional end-of-season finals day takes place at Kingsholm.

“I can’t see it happening in its current format, it’s such a shame,” he told The Local Answer. “Up until the disturbance it had been the perfect day.

“We’d had 2,300 people turn up, it was a lovely family day, a great atmosphere, then it all kicked off.”

Both Longlevens and Matson rugby clubs have issued statements condemning the events that unfolded at Kingsholm. 

Earlier, Matson 2nds had beaten Old Cryptians 24-22 to win the Junior Cup, while the invitational game between Hucclecote Ladies and Dursley Ladies saw the Gloucester side win 69-5.

That match was part of a three-day festival of rugby which also included county championship men’s and women’s games, walking rugby and mixed ability rugby.

Meanwhile, the North Gloucestershire Combination’s Glanville Cup was won by Chosen Hill 3rds after their 29-14 win at Matson 3rds on Friday, a game that was watched by a crowd of 700.