AN annual youth sporting event that is expected to attract 1,500 children from across the county will be held in Ryedale on Sunday.

Children will compete in 13 sports at the seventh annual North Yorkshire Youth Games, to be staged at Ampleforth College.

It gives young people the chance to gain experience of a number of sports.

It is the second year the college has hosted the event.

Those taking part will also be cheered on by England cricketer Claire Taylor, who will share her experiences of being a world-class sportswoman.

Also attending will be Everton and England footballer Rachel Unitt. Like Miss Taylor, she is trying to encourage young people to take part in sport and physical activity.

David Watson, who is involved in the games, said: "We are confident that this year's event will be even bigger and better than the previous years.

"The youth games have been designed to provide a clear pathway to enable young people to progress from the playground to the podium.