ALMOST 800 players have already registered to play an innovative physical activity game that has been launched in South Ockendon and Aveley.

Beat the Street launched on Wednesday, 23 April and is running until Wednesday 21 May, thanks to funding from a National Lottery Grant from Sport England.

The interactive game encourages people of all ages to get active by transforming outdoor spaces into a real-life adventure. Residents will notice special sensors called Beat Boxes appearing on lampposts across the area.

Beat boxes can be found by using the Beat the Street map.

People can get involved by picking up a free game card from designated distribution points listed on the Beat the Street website.

Alternatively, participants aged 13 and over can choose to play via the official mobile app, available for download on Google Play and the iOS App Store.

Players can collect points by walking, cycling, or wheeling between Beat Boxes, and tapping their cards on the sensors or using the Beat the Street app as they pass. The further they travel, the more points they earn. So far, players have walked more than 430 miles.

Players who collect the most points have a chance to win a £150 voucher for Decathlon.

Some events have been planned to help participants to get active and meet with others while they play. A full list of the upcoming events can be found on the Beat the Street website.

Cllr Mark Hooper, Cabinet Member for Health and Well-being, said: "We are delighted to finally launch Beat the Street in South Ockendon and Aveley.

"Being part of a national initiative that has already engaged over a million players in England is very exciting. We've already got over 790 players registered and I'm looking forward to seeing how many more we can get to take part.

"There are some great prizes available, and even if you don't win it's a great way to benefit your physical and mental health by getting active and outdoors."

For updates and further details, visit the Beat the Street website.