A rector will attempt to beat the chimes of the church clock in a Chariots of Fire style race as Olympic fever hits Barnet next week.

Rev Philip Davison will don his running gear and run around the churchyard at St Mary-at-Finchley, in Hendon Lane, Finchley, as the clock strikes 2pm, when the Olympic torch will enter Finchley on Wednesday, July 25.

The church will also host a 1948 London Olympics themed fun day, with live music and a sing-along, refreshments served by waitresses in Forties outfits and old-fashioned Olympic games.

The event will start at midday, with the torch due to be carried past the church at 2.15pm.

There will also be quizzes, homemade refreshments and a replica Olympic torch will be lit.