THOUSANDS of people are expected to take to the streets as East Sussex is transformed into a giant walking and cycling game.

Beat the Street runs from tomorrow until July 26 with those taking part rewarded with points and prizes for exploring where they live on foot or by bike.

More than 400 special sensors called Beat Boxes will appear across the county.

Players can pick up a street card and map at a library or leisure centre and swipe as many Beat Boxes as possible.

Teams across East Sussex will be competing against each other to see who can travel the furthest.

Players can create their own teams with their friends or colleagues, or register to join an existing team or school.

The aim of the campaign is to help improve the health of thousands of people in the county by encouraging them to walk, run or cycle more.

The initiative is run by Intelligent Health and funded by East Sussex County Council’s public health team and clinical commissioning groups (CCG) covering Eastbourne, Hailsham, Seaford, Hastings and Rother.

East Sussex acting director of public health, Cynthia Lyons, said: “We are incredibly excited to be bringing Beat the Street to East Sussex and can’t wait to see how far everyone is able to walk, run, cycle or scoot during the seven-week challenge.

“Anyone is able to get involved in Beat the Street – it’s completely free to play and is a great opportunity to go outdoors, spend time with your friends and family and get moving.”

Eastbourne, Hailsham and Seaford CCG chairman Martin Writer said: “Beat the Street is an excellent initiative which provides the opportunity for people of all ages to improve their health by being more active.

“For many people, becoming more active could be the best medicine they can take. It can make them feel better, more energetic and improve their mood. It can also help to lower the risk of serious illnesses like heart disease and type 2 diabetes.”

Hastings and Rother CCG chairman David Warden, said: “This innovative game will empower residents to take more control of their health and wellbeing by inspiring people to get involved in physical activity in communities.

“We are proud to be part of the largest Beat the Street initiative to be delivered in the country.”

Obesity is a major health problem, costing the NHS in Sussex hundreds of millions of pounds a year.

It can lead to high blood pressure as well as increase the risk of stroke or cancer.

About 22.6 per cent of reception age children and 32 per cent of year 6 children in East Sussex are overweight or obese.