A CHILDREN'S sports day which started 55 years ago could be held for the last time this weekend.

Lack of helpers, less support from parents and growing problems of insuring against accidents are combining to spell a bleak future for Ripon Children's Sports Day.

In its heyday, the event attracted more than 300 eager racers.

When the starting gun goes off at Camp Close on Saturday about 100 will be bidding to be first past the finishing line.

The main reason for the event's uncertainty is fewer people prepared to organise the event - this year there are only five people involved.

Chairman Charlotte Hartley said that no final decision would be made on whether to carry on until the latest sports day had been fully assessed.

Organisers have even had a problem securing insurance for the sports day queen and her two attendants.

Normally, they would ride in splendour on a decorated float from the city centre to the sports field.

This year, however, they will be taken in a classic car after an insurance company said there was too much of a risk of them falling off the float.

The event came within a whisker of being cancelled through lack of helpers last year.

Mrs Hartley said: "It has been touch-and-go as to whether it went ahead this time.

"Perhaps parents don't want their children running in races when they have electronic games to play at home."

More than £1,000 in sponsorship has been secured to offer prizes for runners this year.

In addition to the races, there will be a bonny baby contest and fancy dress parade.