A SPORTING event has taken place allowing competitors with all levels of disability to take part in athletic games.

Service provider, Innovations, held its annual sports day at Sunnydale Leisure Centre in Shildon, County Durham, and attracted participants from across the North-East.

Event organiser, Jennifer Howe, wanted the event to be a day where people could compete in a friendly way and meet old friends.

She said: "It’s a big celebration because everyone gets a medal or a trophy. They all love it and we hope they all get something out of it.

"As soon as the summer starts it’s something they ask for because they get really excited in the build up."

The event has been running for over ten years and was set up as a way people with disabilities could improve their social skills.

More than 300 people turned up to the day which saw participants get involved in sports ranging from the javelin to the 100-metre dash.

Stacie Miller has been taking part in the event for the past five years. She said: “I love the event, they’ve organised it so well, and it's fun for everybody."

Individuals unable to take part in the physical activity were given official roles to include them in the day.

The 28-year-old added: “I like it because you get to see everybody and have a laugh. It’s really good because all of my friends are here and I can take part in the races."

Development coordinator, Hazel Kennedy, said: “It gives them the opportunity to meet up with people they haven’t seen in a while.

"All of our eight resource centres come together and we help them learn skills through the day.

"Everybody enjoys the sports day and has a great time because they develop things they can use in everyday life."