PICKERING’S first ever Hockeyfest will take place at Ryedale Leisure Centre on Saturday, September 7.

Similar events have taken place all over the country in England Hockey’s drive to encourage more people to take part in this popular sport.

Hosts Pickering Hockey Club are inviting people of all ages and abilities to take part in the fun filled morning which will be followed by a barbecue at the Sun Inn pub.

The event ‘s organiser Hazel Winter said: “We are really looking forward to hosting our first ever Hockeyfest.

“This will be very much a family day of fun with our friendly coaches and volunteers helping everyone to participate.

The excitement begins at 10am with a ‘Pick up a Stick’ session using a variety of equipment for all abilities.

There will then be the chance to win some prizes on the Crazy Golf Hockey Course and hockey skills “Treasure Hunt”.

This will be followed by small sided games for all abilities - juniors, development and walking hockey.

Anyone under 10 should be accompanied by an adult and trainers should be worn. Sticks are provided.

The event opens the season for the club with the Ladies team newly promoted to division three of the Yorkshire League.

Ladies and over 15s training takes place on the synthetic pitch every Thursday (7.30pm-8.30pm).

Junior training takes place between 6.30pm and 7.30pm with the under 14’s starting on September 5 and Yr 5/6 on September 12.

For further details, contact the club at: pickeringladieshockey@hotmail.com.