OKEHAMPTON Sports and Fitness Festival broke new records this year, when an outstanding number of people participated earlier this month.

More than 1,500 people of all ages took part in over 40 different sports and activities, which highlighted the areas excellent activity infrastructure.

The festival was organised by Okehampton Community Recreation Association (OCRA) and 5X30 (More Active — More Often).

The programme offered children, youths and adults of all abilities, to try new activities and to participate in a range of competitions.

Kicking off the week was the Okehampton Skate and Bike Jam, which saw 100 young people creating a fantastic atmosphere for participating in skateboarding, inline skating, BMX and bike riding.

The have-a-go sessions, which gave people the chance to try out judo, fencing, pilates, table tennis, karate and much more, proved very popular.

The festival saw swimming project Fit as a Fish and walking projects such as Walk and Talk, encourage people to become more active, as well as members of The Puzzle Tree, who enjoyed participating in the spirited active week.

The festival was also enjoyed by Plymouth Albion fans. The team sent over some players, along with former England player and coach, Graham Dawe, to help around 90 local young players and kick start this season's training. 

The seven-a-side cricket festival, sponsored by Stevens Estate Agents, saw Bridestowe taking the trophy for the second year.

The final day, Super Sporting Sunday, was held at Okehampton College and Simmons Park.

The day saw more than 700 people participating in the Moorwalk and Run, Mens and Womens five-a side football, dancing, art activities, kids soccer, putting, face painting and a free swim. 

OCRA and 5X30 expressed thanks to all the clubs, organisations and individuals who made the programme of events possible.

Activity development manager for OCRA, Stuart Lord said: 'This festival has become a great advertisement for the area with people from as far a field as Glasgow and Australia, as well as local people commenting very positively on the event.

'We are already looking forward to the 10th year of this festival and are keen to hear from anyone who has ideas and are keen to help.'

This year's festival was supported by local businesses, EX20 Lottery, Okehampton United Charities, Big lottery Fund, Okehampton Town Council, Okehampton Hamlets, Okehampton Lions and OCRA.

For more information phone OCRA or 5X30 on 01837 54546 or email [email protected]">[email protected]