Registration for the 2026 Saddleworth Village Olympics is now open, with young athletes across Saddleworth invited to take part in this beloved community tradition. The Games will kick off with the Opening Ceremony at Saddleworth School in Diggle on Saturday, 6 September, at 9am, before moving to venues across the area over the following two weeks.

Now in its 32nd year, the Olympics are open to children aged between seven and 16, and organisers expect up to 1,000 participants. The schedule includes a mix of team and solo sports such as basketball, cricket, football, swimming, and tug of war, alongside new events yet to be announced. The aim is to encourage sportsmanship and teamwork, giving children the chance to try both familiar and new activities.

The Opening Ceremony typically features a local celebrity or professional athlete, though this year's guest is still under wraps. It promises to be a lively start to a fortnight of healthy competition and community spirit.

The event is free to enter and run entirely by volunteers, relying on donations to cover costs. In partnership with fundraising charity SuperKind, the organising committee is asking parents who can afford it to make a recommended donation of £10 to help keep the Games going. For 40 years, the Saddleworth Village Olympics has been a highlight of the local calendar, bringing together families and neighbours in support of young people.

This year's event will also mark a change in leadership. Chairman Stephen Hewitt has announced his final year at the helm, with Scott Chapman set to take over. Hewitt said he was looking forward to seeing the Games unfold one last time under his watch. "I'll still be involved in the background and at some events, but it's time for new input and fresh ideas. The SVO will be in great hands with Scott Chapman taking over," he added. "It's come around quick again this year for registration. I can't wait for the event to start, especially with our expanded events. It's great to get as many children involved as possible."

Parents and guardians are now being urged to register their children via the new website. Even those who have taken part before need to re-register, along with the sports they plan to compete in. Full details of the schedule and how to sign up are available on the Olympics' website. As always, the focus is on fun, fairness, and fostering a love of sport in Saddleworth's young people.