Totnes to Host Inaugural James Parkes Pétanque Tournament on Vire Island 

A new annual sporting event is set to launch in Totnes this summer, bringing together players from across Devon for a friendly but competitive day of pétanque on the banks of the River Dart.

The First Annual James Parkes Pétanque Tournament will take place on Saturday 11 July at 2:30pm on Vire Island, a riverside public space beside Totnes’ historic Old Bridge.
Open to players of all abilities, the doubles tournament is expected to attract both experienced pétanque players and newcomers keen to try the traditional French game in a relaxed and social setting. Organisers say the event is designed to be inclusive, welcoming anyone interested in taking part, with matches played throughout the afternoon until an overall winning pair is decided.
Community sport with an international link

The tournament is being organised as a fundraiser for the Totnes–Vire Twin Town Association, which supports cultural exchange and community links between Totnes and its twin town of Vire in Normandy, France. Prizes will be awarded to the top three teams, and the winning pair will take home the newly introduced James Parkes Trophy.
The event also highlights the long-standing friendship between the two towns. James Parkes, former Mayor of Totnes (2004–05), was a strong supporter of the twinning relationship and later became a well-known figure in Vire, where a road now bears his name.

A summer setting in the heart of Totnes

Vire Island, located beside the A385 near the Old Totnes Bridge, provides a scenic riverside backdrop for the tournament. The space is within easy walking distance of the town centre and Totnes railway station, and remains open to the public throughout the day.  The setting is ideal for a summer sporting event, with views of the River Dart and a relaxed atmosphere suitable for both players and spectators. Authentic Norman cider from Vire, of both apple and pear varieties, will also be available during the event, adding a direct link to the town’s French connection.

Part of a wider cultural festival

The tournament will take place during the Totnes Fringe Festival, meaning visitors will be able to combine the pétanque competition with a wider programme of arts, performances, workshops and community events across the town. With many activities free to attend, organisers hope the tournament will draw additional visitors into Totnes and encourage wider participation in both the festival and local community life.

Growing interest in pétanque

Pétanque, a traditional French boules sport, is growing in popularity across the UK. The game is played by throwing metal balls (boules) towards a smaller target ball known as the “cochonnet” or “jack”, with the aim of finishing closest. It is known for being easy to learn, highly social, and suitable for all ages and physical abilities.

Event details 
The First Annual James Parkes Pétanque Tournament takes place:
Saturday 11 July
Starts 2:30pm
Vire Island, Totnes
£10 per team of 2
Doubles format, all abilities welcome

The event page on Facebook for more info and to invite others : https://facebook.com/events/s/the-first-annual-james-parkes-/1314851437444149/?

To find out more or to get involved with the twin town initiative, visit the associations website: https://www.totnesviretwins.com