THOUSANDS of people will once again descend on Chipping Campden tonight for a sporting extravaganza with a difference.
Robert Dover's Cotswold Olimpick Games has become one of the highlights of the events calendar.
This year's programme, which takes place at Dover's Hill, will see organiser Robert Dover arrive on horseback at the castle in the Lower Arena at 7.30pm tonight.
Robert will declare the games officially open and shortly after a Championship of the Hill event will commence which sees teams compete in a traditional obstacle course race.
A five-mile run through the grounds of Campden House also takes place, followed by the traditional junior circuit race event.
Traditional games such as throwing the hammer and putting the shot will also take place later in the day.
At 8.45pm, shin-kicking heats will begin, followed by the final of Tug O'War at 9.15pm.
The final of the World Championship shin-kicking takes place from 9.30pm before medals, cups and trophies are presented in a ceremony.
The Scuttlebrook Queen will then light a beacon at 10.10pm which will lead a torchlit procession to The Square in Chipping Campden.
Once there, floodlit dancing will keep people merry until midnight.
Over at Upper Arena 'A', bands will keep people entertained throughout the night including Coventry Corps of Drums, Campden Morris Men and the Cheltenham Pipe Band.
The Duston German Shepherd Dog Training School will also give a display at 9pm.
Other activities taking place during the event include a chance to go bungee jumping, face-painting and an opportunity to get up close to birds of prey.
Entry is via wristband, priced £4 for adults and £2 for children. Under fives go free.
Chairman of Robert Dover Games, Graham Grenall, said: "Last year we celebrated the 400th anniversary of what are now often called the Cotswold Olimpicks and this year we shall be continuing with the annual tradition.
"Our dedicated team of volunteers will organise a fun-packed family day of races, games, music and entertainment."