MASCOTS have been limbering up for a race with a difference next month.

Sedgefield Racecourse will host a day of family fun activities to raise money for Butterwick Hospice Care.

Among the events at the Butterwick Hospice Race Day, on Saturday, May 17, will be a sponsored hobby horse race and a three-legged mascot race.

The racecourse will open in the afternoon for anyone wanting to watch the FA Cup Final.

The first event will be the Butterwick Gallop for furry mascots.

Fundraiser Sylvia Stoneham said: "The idea is to get traditional rivals to team up, so we would have Liverpool and Everton and Manchester United with Manchester City."

One of the novelty events will be The Butterwick Derby, a hobby horse race over the final furlong open to anybody and everybody.

There will also be six horse races, but the emphasis will be on family fun. Entry is £6 for adults and free for children.

It is hoped to make it an annual event.

For more details telephone Mrs Stoneham on (01388) 603003.