COMMUNITIES across the county are gearing up to celebrate the two-year countdown to the start of the London 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games.

This weekend will see 55 events held throughout Suffolk showcasing a mixture of art, culture, sport and more.

Local communities from across the UK have lined up a number of events to mark the beginning of the two-year countdown to the Games, which starts on Tuesday.

This year’s Open Weekend has the theme of “challenge yourself” – creating an opportunity for everyone to set a new personal best by trying something new or taking an existing interest to the next level.

Rosemary Clarke, Suffolk County Council’s portfolio-holder for sport, culture, diversity, health and wellbeing, said it was an opportunity for local community groups to celebrate the Games, showcase themselves and inspire others.

“With just two years to go until the start of the Olympic and Paralympic Games, Open Weekend is a wonderful opportunity for people and communities to share in the excitement,” she said.

“With over 25,000 people taking part in events across the county, these countdown celebrations are all about activities that happen close to home – a chance to see places in a new light and try things they’ve never done before.”

The Suffolk Culture and Sport Partnership has teamed up with the Community Cohesion and Inclusion Delivery Partnership to support communities, groups and organisations with grants of up to �500 to hold a sporting or cultural event.

Doreen Savage, chairman of the Community Cohesion and Inclusion Delivery Partnership, said: “The range of events means there will be something to suit everyone across the county during the weekend.”

To find out where your nearest event is happening visit www.openweekendinsuffolk.com.