Applications are open to race in a duathlon organised for Clackmannanshire schools which will take place in Stirling at the end of next month.

Youngsters aged 8-16 who love sport may compete in the second community Junior Duathlon at the University of Stirling on Friday 28 November.

Entries are now open for those who would like to put their running and cycling skills to the test in the competition, which is organised by Beaconhurst School, an independent learning facility in Bridge of Allan.

Judith Ramsay, director of sport at Beaconhurst, and PE teacher Kim Booth are organising the event with support from members of the Stirling Triathlon Club.

Ms Ramsay said: “As with our previous events, we’re keen to engage with children from the local community. We’re hoping lots of youngsters will enter and we welcome children from all schools and of all ages and abilities.” There are various categories for all age groups; all the races involve a run followed by a bike ride and a second run around the traffic-free sports ground at the university.

Entries can be made online through the Entry Central website (www.entrycentral.com) and are open till Saturday 22 November. The fee, which is £8 for Triathlon Scotland members and £10 for non-members, includes soup and sandwiches following the event.

The races will be marshalled by senior students of the school and representatives of the Stirling Triathlon Club.

Last year 80 pupils attended the competition. Ms Ramsay added: “Our 2013 race proved really popular so we decided to run it again this year and will now make the Duathlon an annual event.”