In what is one of the ultimate tests of strength and resilience, Kessingland's annual tug-of-war festival is set to return this weekend.

Eastern Daily Press: The Hadleigh team competing at the event in 2016. Picture: Rob ColmanThe Hadleigh team competing at the event in 2016. Picture: Rob Colman (Image: � Rob Colman 2016. No Syndication.)

The event - now in its 38th year - is run by area five of the Tug of War Association, which covers Suffolk, Norfolk, Essex, Bedfordshire and Lincolnshire.

On Saturday, October 7 and Sunday 8, teams consisting of eight competitors will convene at Park Resorts Holiday Park to pull in four different weight categories, with the maximum being 720kg.

Eastern Daily Press: Competitors dig their heels in during last year's competition. Picture: Rob ColmanCompetitors dig their heels in during last year's competition. Picture: Rob Colman (Image: � Rob Colman 2016. No Syndication.)

The Kessingland weekender is the penultimate contest of the outdoor tug-of-war season, before the indoor season gets under way later this month.

David Ling, chairman of the area five group, said: 'We look forward to this event every year because it's a really nice get-together.

Eastern Daily Press: Last year saw Thames Valley (yellow) take on Hadleigh (purple). Picture: Rob ColmanLast year saw Thames Valley (yellow) take on Hadleigh (purple). Picture: Rob Colman (Image: � Rob Colman 2016. No Syndication.)

'It's an opportunity to meet new people and have a really fun day.'

For more information about tug-of-war in the area, contact David Ling on 01493 300223.