YOUNG people from schools and youth clubs in the North-East are being invited to enter teams for an outdoor adventure competition.

The 2005 Kielder Challenge is for young people with and without disabilities. It has 200 team places available but these are going fast, so youngsters need to get their entries in early.

Teams take part in a one-day heat at a local country wood or park in April or May, where they attempt a series of problem-solving activities against the clock, such as rope mazes and obstacle courses.

Of the initial 200 teams, 12 will compete in the two-day grand final in Kielder Forest, Northumberland, in September.

The competition is open to teams of eight 13 to 16-year-olds, four of which have learning, sensory or physical disabilities.

The challenge has been running for 21 years with more than 10,000 participants and is organised by the Fieldfare Trust.

Rod Holmes, from the trust, said: "The competition is all about helping develop teamwork and communication skills, so that's where most of the points are given."

For more information or to get an entry form, visit www.fieldfare.org.uk or call 0115-950 8415.