TWO school friends are encouraging children across the city to get muddy for a good cause this summer.

Seven-year-old Heidi Stower from Strensall and her best friend Molly-Rose Warren have been practising their skills on space hoppers in preparation for the new obstacle course Race for Life Pretty Muddy kids event.

The challenge is designed specially for children and features scramble nets, a space hopper dash and muddy pools for youngsters to clamber through for a good cause. The event aims to raise money for charity Cancer Research UK.

Heidi’s auntie Rachel Speight-McGregor, who is a fundraising manager for Cancer Research UK and also a former space hopper world record holder, said: “I’m so proud of the girls for getting involved in Race for Life and supporting such a fantastic cause.

“They are so excited about taking part in the Pretty Muddy Kids event and having an excuse to get covered in mud from head to toe. This new event is sure to be a big success.”

>>>>>PICTURES OF PRETTY MUDDY 2017

The challenge takes place at Knavesmire on September 15, the same day as the York Pretty Muddy 5K event for women.

A spokesman for the charity said the popular obstacle course events aim to fund scientific research to improve survival rates.

It is the first time York will host the Pretty Muddy Kids event, which is open to both boys and girls aged from fiver to 12-years-old.

There is a minimum height requirement of 1.2m and all parents must be accompanied by an adult. The entry fee is £10 and a spokesman said tickets are selling fast. To sign up visit raceforlife.org or call 0300 123 0770.