THE UK's National Outdoor Tug of War Championships is coming to Oxfordshire – and local tough guys (and girls) are invited to test their strength.

The Tug of War Association is holding its 2018 competition at the third annual Grove and Wantage Extravaganza next month.

Tug teams from across the country will be pulling together at the event, with the winners of various categories going on to represent England at the World Tug of War Championships in Cape Town, South Africa.

Several Oxfordshire teams have already signed up but spaces are still available.

The event on Saturday, June 16, also coincides with the Tug of War Association’s 60th anniversary.

Spokesman Alan Knott said: “This championship will be even more special for us.

“Tug of war is a true team sport: the ethics of determination, hard work, sportsmanship, and friendship are unrivalled in any other sport.

“We will have teams that have won World and European Championship medals taking part which should make for a very exciting championship.”

The competition will start at 10am at Grove Recreation Ground and carry on throughout the day, surrounded by the attractions at this year's extravaganza.

Teams of eight will be go to war in a mixed gender weight class, men’s, ladies’ and children’s weight categories.

Stephen Dexter, from the extravaganza organising committee said: “I am delighted that we have managed to secure the Tug of War Championships to Grove.

"The event will be the centrepiece for what is becoming a large community event and we look forward to a fascinating day of competition and fun.”

This year's Grove and Wantage Extravaganza will feature a range of free family activities.

A fun fair, sideshows, various display stands, climbing wall, a dog agility display, dog and duck show, children’s rugby demonstration, clog dancing and morris dancing will be among the attractions.

Evening entertainment, from 6-11pm, could feature a hot air balloon display and includes local rock bands C U Tuesday, Electrichead, Bright Works, The Talismen and String Fever..

Anyone interested in joining the Tug of War Championships can register a team online, with associate membership costing £20, plus a £5 per person fee.

Full information is available at the association website tugofwar.co.uk