Rugby World Cup organisers have invited groups to get in on the fun by becoming part of a 'Festival of Rugby'.

Anyone holding events before and during the tournament, from bake sales to major sporting events, can apply for recognition.

Should they be successful, they will earn the right to use the tournament branding as well as receiving promotional support.

To qualify, an event must include some rugby 'theme', but England Rugby 2015 organisers say this could be as simple as a link to a rugby team or a celebration of the sport's cultural background.

The 'festival' will run between June 10 and October 31, the date of the tournament final at Twickenham Stadium.

Former England players Jason Leonard and Maggie Alphonsi launched the application process yesterday at Teddington RFC.

England Rugby 2015 chief executive Debbie Jevans said: "The Festival of Rugby 2015 aims to create a true festival feeling across the UK by offering the opportunity for national, local, community and individual events to be part of rugby's biggest year."

The World Wheelchair Rugby Challenge, due to take place this October at the Olympic Park's Copper Box Arena, is among the events whose organisers have already registered an interest.

Hounslow Council announced last year it hoped to hold a six-week festival of rugby at Redlees Park, in Isleworth, during the tournament, including big screens showing all the games.

Richmond Council earlier this month announced plans to close a section of the A316 in Twickenham on match days during the tournament.

Schools, community groups, sports clubs and other organisations can find out how to get involved in the Festival of Rugby at www.festivalofrugby2015.com