THE big push to persuade people in the region to be more active reaches an important stage this week.

Halfway through the four-month-long Everyday Sport campaign, organisers are hoping that North-East families will flock to a major promotional event.

Billed as a Have-A-Go Extravaganza, the free event will turn the Metro Radio Arena in Newcastle into a showcase for more than 25 activities.

The hope is that many young people and parents will be inspired to take up a sport or activity.

Everyday Sport needs to demonstrate that it has made a measurable difference to the amount of exercise people in the region take.

As a potential model for the whole country, the Government-backed and celebrity-endorsed campaign is seen as a vital part of getting Britain moving. The North-East was chosen to host the test campaign because the region has the lowest participation rates in sport and physical activity in England.

The idea behind the "everyday sport" slogan is to show that you can be more active without disrupting busy lifestyles and without needing to be a fitness enthusiast.

Hundreds of schools have signed up for Everyday Sport and a number of activities are planned in September.

Anyone can take part in the free event and find out more about a whole range of activities, from belly dancing and judo to cycling and salsa.

The Football Association, English Table Tennis Association, Tyne Rowing Club, Lawn Tennis Association, Rugby Football Union, England netball and badminton associations will be among exhibitors introducing their activities to the people of the North-East.

The event will run from 11am until 3pm on Thursday.

To find out more about Everyday Sport, contact 0191-269 9460 or log on to the website www.everydaysport.com