A POPULAR event is to return to Hamble this year.

A date has been set for the River Hamble Games 2018 – June 16 – and entries are now open.

Up to 500 competitors are expected to take part in the popular biennial event, launched in 2012.

Events will include swimming, paddleboarding, rowing, sailing, kayaking, volleyball and running.

New for 2018 will be a cycling competition with timed head-to-head races on stationary bicycles.

The event is organised by the River Hamble Games Committee, made up of residents from local sports clubs.

Jason Scott, marine director and harbour master, said: “The event is becoming more and more popular. The numbers are going up every year and we think we are going to have 500 people this year. It’s a tremendous fun day.

“Some of the events are tasters to get young people involved in sports activities in a safe environment.

“There’s pretty much something for everybody on the day. It’s all about having fun. We just want to make sure people enjoy themselves.”

During the games there will be live music and food stalls on the foreshore.

The Harbour Master Charity Pursuit Race will also take place during the day to raise money for Parkinson’s UK. The competitions will take place from 9.30am to 3pm while the entertainments on shore will continue until 7pm.

However, the exact timetable has yet to be released.

Entry is £7 per person.

For more information visit river hamblegames.com.