A THOUSAND youngsters will be running for fun in a cross-country event tomorrow.

Children aged six to 11, of all abilities, will take part in the race at St Bede's Catholic Comprehesive School, in Peterlee.

Geoff Sheldon, from the partnership, said: "The aim is to provide a fun social occasion for all of the children, as part of an intensive programme designed to raise participation and fitness levels of young people in the east of the county."

A team of young sports leaders from St Bede's will help run the event, and Scolarest, Durham County Council's school meals provider, will ensure each child taking part receives a hot drink and a snack.

The schools in Easington district taking part are: Blackhall Primary, Cotsford Junior, Deaf Hill Primary, Deneside Infants, Easington CE, Easington Colliery, Hesleden Primary, Howletch Lane Primary, Murton Jubilee and Murton Primary.

New Seaham Primary, Our Lady of the Rosary RC Primary, Our Lady Star of the Sea RC Primary, Parkside Infants, Shotton Primary, South Hetton Primary, St Cuthbert's RC Primary, St Joseph's, Blackhall, Thornley Primary and Yohden Primary will also take part.