WOMEN and girls are being encouraged to live a more active life.

A festival giving ladies the chance to try out new sports and activities is coming to Halstead as part of a county-wide programme.

"Women Like Us" festival is part of an Active Essex initiative offering the chance to give some new hobbies a go in a fun and friendly atmosphere.

The event is being held on Sunday February 3 between 10am and 1pm at Halstead Leisure Centre, Colne Road.

The idea was inspired by the national This Girl Can campaign developed by Sport England and has been organised by This Girl Can Essex ambassadors; the Townsend Twins and Carole Watts and Active Essex partner, Active Braintree.

The free festival will give girls and women a chance to explore activities such as: Walking Football, Rebound UK and Boot Camp, as well as delivering health and wellbeing workshops.

Rachel Lewis, assistant Active Essex relationship manager for Mid-Essex, said: "Last year we had over 900 women take part in our ‘Women Like Us’ and This Girl Can festivals across the county, this year we are delighted to be bringing the festival to Halstead.

"It is an opportunity for ladies to try something new, whether it be to reach personal ambitions or connect socially; it is a chance to showcase some of the fantastic activities in the district."

Previous participants say that the festivals bring the community together and inspire females of all ages and ability to take part in physical activity and sport.

Participants are encouraged to partake in as many taster activities sessions as they like. Sessions will be on first come first serve basis, so people are encouraged to sign up as soon as possible.

For more information and to register your space for the event visit https://www.activeessex.org/women-like-us-festivals-2019/

For more information about Active Essex and the This Girl Campaign, visit www.activeessex.org