A Hitchin man has created an Olympic-themed obstacle course - for squirrels.

Retired teacher Steve Barley, a self-confessed 'English eccentric', is renowned in our area for constructing assault courses for squirrels in his back garden.

During the height of the first lockdown Steve built an NHS-themed obstacle course for squirrels, as his own special tribute to staff and key workers.

However, with Team GB gripping the nation with their fabulous exploits from the Tokyo 2020, Steve decided to build an Olympic obstacle course called 'The Leaptathlon' in their honour.

The Lavender Way resident spent 12 weeks assembling the course, which includes hurdles, swimming and even a high jump while being broadcast on his very own channel called 'Clamber Cam'.

Posting on his Twitter account Steve, 57, who has also previously built a Formula One obstacle course for squirrels, wrote: "Why go to Tokyo when you can see all the squirrel sporting action right here in Hitchin!

"Seven events, four courses, two squirrels and far too many puns in the commentary.

"Let the Squirrel Olympics - The Leaptathlon begin!"

Squirrels that complete the course are rewarded with a bag of nuts, although there is no truth in the rumour that 'Nutlfix' are interested in screening Steve's special Olympics.