HUNDREDS of super-fit youngsters are taking part in the world’s largest ‘Ironkids’ event this morning.

The series of races is taking place around Victoria Square and Le Mans Crescent in the town centre.

Competitors range from from pre-school and nursery children in a 500m race up to teenagers in school years 9 and 10, who tackle a 2km event.

The Mayor of Bolton, Cllr Roger Hayes, was at the finish line to hand out well deserved medals to the up and coming athletes.

He said: “It’s a superb thing for Bolton, it’s the largest Ironkids event in the world – again –  and it’s great to see the kids getting a taste of what the adults will be doing on Sunday. They’re obviously enjoying it despite the rain—Bolton’s traditional greeting— they’re loving it.”