LONDON -- Just outside of London Stadium, where the finishing touches were being made ahead of this weekend’s London Series, employees could hear laughter and excitement. Close to 300 primary school children were up and ready right at 10 a.m. to participate in the First Pitch Festival in the nearby London Marathon Community Track on Wednesday and Thursday morning.

“The Volunteers brought the energy, and the kids had an absolute blast,” said MLB PLAY BALL Ambassador James Lowe, commonly referred to as Coach Ballgame. “Many of them had never held a ball or bat before, but the smiles were abundant.”

The festival kicked off the leadup of the London Series in an effort to continue to draw interest from new baseball fans. MLB First Pitch celebrated its fourth year as a grassroots skills program to assist with the introduction of baseball to a new generation of players. Along with baseball skills, the program aims to develop personal skills like teamwork, leadership, resilience, self-esteem and critical thinking.

Since its inception, the UK-based program has grown to 14,000 primary school children that have participated through 2023.

The two featured teams of the series -- the Phillies and the Mets -- were both represented by alumni at the festival. Hall of Famer Mookie Wilson and three-time All-Star Daniel Murphy attended on behalf of the Mets. From the Phillies side were All-Star Mickey Morandini and World Series winner Milt Thompson.

Whether it was answering questions, providing encouragement, sharing words of wisdom, or even signing autographs, the former Major Leaguers did everything they could to share their love and passion for baseball. They coached participants through throwing, pitching, swinging and running drills.

“Our MLB Alumni were ALL IN. They engaged with every kid, creating a culture of joy and kindness,” Lowe said.

The Mets mascots -- Mr. and Mrs. Met -- were also in attendance adding to the delight of the participants. Mrs. Met led a group through stretching exercises, while Mr. Met danced with another group.

“This event in London surpassed all my expectations, and then some,” Lowe said. “Dare I say, it was my favorite MLB event to date. MLB Europe’s preparation and attention to detail made a camp of 280 kids seem easy.”

After the conclusion of the London Series, the First Pitch efforts will continue in the United Kingdom. Children in Liverpool will get an opportunity to participate in their own festival on June 26.

“I look forward to returning, as it feels like there’s a momentum shift in the UK with the game of baseball. It’s just the start!” Lowe said.