THERE will be something for everyone this summer when Okehampton Sports and Fitness Festival 2009 promises to keep the town on its toes.

The festival, which is organised by Okehampton Community Recreation Association (OCRA), 5X30 and other local sports clubs, initiatives and individuals, will welcome more than 40 different sports and activities for children, youths and adults.

The week long festival will run from Saturday to Sunday, July 12.

There will be a whole range of fitness classes, which include pilates, aerobics, circuit training, tai chi and martial arts for people to try out, with all sessions free to newcomers.

OCRA activity development manager Stuart Lord said the festival, now in its ninth year, was open to everyone, irrespective of ability.

He said: 'Please do come along, either individually or with family, friends or work colleagues.

'This year new activities reflect the diversity that the festival offers. There will be sailing, walks, windsurfing, over 50s swimming, streetdance, conservation and running on offer for everyone.'

The festival has been steadily growing and saw more than 1,400 people participating in last years events.

Mr Lord added: 'There is also the ultimate challenge of the high ropes course— for those who are brave enough—to be suspended 40 feet above the ground to take on the physical and mental challenges.

'There will also be a moor walk and run, which will offer the chance to raise money for Cancer Research UK, while taking part in spectacular six or 12 mile routes on the final day of the festival.'

Competitions will be held throughout the week, to include rounders, cycle time trial, netball, five-a-side football, squash, badminton, tennis, cricket, putting and skating.

The festival will also welcome the much anticipated return of the Plymouth Albion Rugby players, who will pay a visit to Okehampton College and offer coaching sessions for all ages.

This year's festival kicks off this weekend on Saturday, July 4, with a skate and bike jam at Okehampton Skatepark between 2pm and 5pm.

The newly refurbished park will offer the chance for all ages and abilities to come along and free skate and ride, as well as enter an open competition for skateboarders, in-liners and dirt track riders.

Anyone who wishes to enter any of the competitions must make contact with the event organisers.

Fundraising for this year's festival has been received from OCRA, 5X30, EX20, Okehampton Town Council, Okehampton Hamlets, the Big Lottery Fund, Okehampton United Charities and local businesses.

Free programmes and entry forms are available from Serious About Sport in Okehampton, Red Lion Bazaar, Okehampton Library or through the OCRA website at http://www.ocrasport.org.uk">www.ocrasport.org.uk.

For more information phone 01837 54546.