THE two giant Olympians vying for the 2012 Glass Bead Game title are neck and neck going into week three of their campaign.

Marina Mightier and Boreas Zephyr have each visited three locations in Essex so far and are currently level pegging in their quest for glass beads.

Marina Mightier has collected three beautiful beads from Harwich Harbour, Saffron Walden and Tour de Tendring whilst Boreas Zephyr has a stunning collection of three beads from Stansted Airport, Basildon and Harlow.

Boreas Zephyr looks set to take the lead over the next week with appearances at Wild Woods Day in Hockley Woods on Saturday, June 2 and T-Fest in Grays on Sunday, June 3.

At Wild Woods Day Boreas’ supporters can enjoy a free day of discovery in Hockley’s ancient woodlands between 11am and 4pm with hi-tech Geo-caching treasure hunts, fencing, an under fives area, a climbing wall, rare bird displays and live music.

Several artist commissions will also take place, featuring an outdoor visual spectacle and the culmination of an exciting community dance project.

On Sunday, June 3 Boreas Zephyr will open T-Fest, the major pop music event in Thurrock as he processes aboard his chariot accompanied by an entourage of dancers.

Highlights of this year’s T-Fest line-up include Janet Devlin and Lloyd Daniels of X Factor fame.

There will also be a fairground, food from around the world, a mini Olympics and opportunities to join in community workshops.

Essex County Councillor Jeremy Lucas, Cabinet Member for Environment, Culture and Customer Service said: “I’d like to encourage all of our residents to share in our Champions’ journey across Essex and attend a Sparks will Fly event near them over the forthcoming bank holiday weekend.

“Each event promises a unique carnival atmosphere which people of all ages will enjoy and certainly remember for many years to come!”

For more information on the journey, visit www.sparkswillfly.org.uk or follow the journey on Twitter: www.twitter.com/Sparks_Essex and Facebook: www.facebook.com/sparkswillflyinessex