A TOWN is gearing up for an active weekend, with the return of a popular running race and a free afternoon of fun and games.

Sedgefield Harriers will host its annual Serpentine Race on Sunday, September 21, starting and finishing at Sedgefield Cricket Club.

The 6.5-mile race sets off at 10.30am and covers beautiful paths and trails around Hardwick Park and Bishop Middleham.

It will be followed by a barbecue at the cricket club, courtesy of 1st Sedgefield Scouts, and the Sedgefield Village Games, a free family fun and games festival, from 1pm to 5pm at the same venue.

Now in its third year, the games offer people the chance to try out a large range of sport equipment, as part of the London 2012 Olympics legacy.

There will also be music, entertainment and refreshments.

Ean Parson, chairman of Sedgefield Village Harriers, said: “We have everything from football nets and golf and cricket sets, to tennis and badminton rackets. It is just a great way to get families active and for Sedgefield Harriers to get involved with the community.”

Entry to the Serpentine Race costs £9 for members of a running club or £11 for unattached runners.

The cost is £2 more for entries on the day, with prizes in various categories and gifts for everyone who crosses the finish line.

Last year, almost 150 runners took part and a bumper entry is expected this time.

For more information about the race or to register contact steve@sforeman.com or visit sedgefieldharriers.co.uk/sedgefield-serpentine

To find out more about the Sedgefield Village Games visit sedgefieldgames.com