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Europe’s largest inflatable slide will be coming to Newcastle as part of a unique version of the 5km run.

Thrillseekers will be tasked with tackling the 48ft-tall slide, dodging giant balls and fighting their way through foam as they bid to beat the wacky challenge.

The brains behind the run are Gung-Ho! who are trying to capture the essence of TV classics such as It’s a Knockout.

Other challenges on the course include the Giant Ball Pit, Walking on the Moon and The Wall.

Children’s TV presenter Alex Winters is teaming up with organisers to bring the attraction to Newcastle.

He said: “I wanted to take part in a venture that would put a smile on people’s faces.

“I had the idea of creating an event that would capture the fun and pure joy of living that we see in toddlers and young children but for a slightly older audience.

“People have seen Wipeout, It’s A Knockout and some of the other obstacle races on TV - well this captures the essence of that.

“Make no mistake, it’s still a 5k but not as you know it. I’m excited to host these events and give the obstacles a go myself.”

Current plans will allow up to 5,000 to take part in the event.

Anyone taller than 4ft will be able to tackle the challenge, while anyone smaller will still be able to enjoy the music, celebrity hosts and food stands.

After a staircase-like starting hill, participants will run through a giant ball pit, a foam pit, a climbing wall and more before finishing with The Thriller - the biggest inflatable slide in Europe.

Alex has been a presenter on the BBC children’s network CBeebies since 2009.

He also currently hosts a Saturday afternoon quiz show for BBC Radio Wales.

Away from TV and Radio, Alex regularly hosts live events for the BBC as well as family festivals around the UK including Lollibop, Kidzfield at Glastonbury, Geronimo and Little Fun Fest.

The Gung-Ho! obstacle course will be in Newcastle’s Gosforth racecourse on September 19 at 9am.