Youngsters will have a chance to taste athletics during the summer holidays with three days of fun promised at a choice of two different venues.

The Star:Track scheme is a national initiative promoted by UK Athletics and the courses at Blackburn's Witton Park and Wilson Playing Fields in Hyndburn are well established, successful and popular.

The Blackburn event is from Monday, August 7, to Wednesday, August 9, from 10am to 3pm.

It is promoted by Blackburn Harriers and supported by Blackburn and Darwen Borough Council.

It is aimed at children between eight and 13 and everyone completing the three days will win a goodie-bag, with prizes awarded and a mini-Olympics on the final day.

Hyndburn's scheme is from Tuesday, August 29, to Thursday, August 31, from 11am to 3pm, for youngsters from eight to 16.

The children will get a taste of all athletic disciplines from discus to hurdles, but just like at Blackburn, no previous experience is necessary.

In the competition on the final day, medals will be awarded based on the Shine Awards Scheme.

Hyndburn Athletic Club will be running the event with assistance from Hyndburn Borough Council, but there is also a tie-up with Chorley Borough Council to give youngsters from that area a chance to join in.

Each scheme costs £25 for the three days, or £10 for a single day.

For Blackburn's call Joe Fleming on 01254 249862 (evenings) or complete an application form, available at Witton Park and other leisure centres in the borough.

Send with a cheque payable to Blackburn Harriers and AC to Joe at 47, Newington Avenue, Blackburn, BB1 9RG.

Hyndburn's Star:Track event is being administered by Don Lennon, who you can call for an application form on 07725 745832.

If you are from Chorley and are interested in attending at Hyndburn, call Bernard Haggarty at the Council's Sports Development Team on 01257 515151 during office hours.