FROM three-legged races and fell runs, to baking contests and crafts, an annual sports day proved a big hit with energetic youngsters.

Dating back to the 1970s, the Upper Teesdale Sports Day is popular tradition for rural communities in this picturesque part of County Durham.

This year, proved no exception, with families from nearby villages heading to Forest-in-Teesdale to join in the fun yesterday, which culminated in a big tug of war contest.

Along with the sports competitions, youngsters and adults entered baking and craft competitions, including photography and card-making.

Kirsti Bell, of Upper Teesdale Social Group, which organised the event, said: “The sports day is wonderful because we have children from different areas taking part and they all join in together and have a fun time. It’s lovely to see.”