LOOKING for something to do this weekend? Here are a few highlights of events taking place in south Essex to keep you occupied.

The human hamster sets off

Dean Ovel, the "human hamster", will take to Southend High Street from noon on Saturday for his epic 24-hour challenge.

Dean, 40, of Avenue Road, Westcliff, is planning to run in a custom-made 8ft hamster wheel to raise £100,000 for Southend Hospital's dementia appeal.

If you want to cheer him on, the hamster wheel will be situated at the top end of Southend High Street, near the Odeon.

Charity fun walk

John Baron, Tory MP for Basildon and Billericay, organises a yearly fun walk, which will take place on Sunday at Barleylands Farm, Billericay.

The walk, which serves as a fundraiser for a variety of selected charities and voluntary groups, will kick off with a barbecue from noon, before walkers set off at 1pm.

Each year, a bonus pot, made up of donations from sponsoring companies, is paid out to charities and groups who apply to the fund.

Mr Baron said: “We are hoping for a large turnout with over 100 charities participating, and we have around £40,000 so far donated by sponsors to our bonus pot."

Singalong

PERFECT your singing as Mamma Mia will be hitting the big screen this weekend for the whole family to enjoy. 

The free open air screening, held at the Forum, Elm Square, Southend, invites all to bring a blanket, and sing and dance their way through the Abba hits. 

Held on Sunday, guests are encouraged to arrive at 2.30pm for a 3pm start.

Echo: Soul sister - Beverley Knight

Soul star

THREE-time MOBO award winning singer Beverley Knight will be performing at the Cliffs Pavilion.

The show on Sunday at the Cliffs starts at 7:45pm. 

Tickets are £38.50, £31, £23.50, with a VIP Package for £88.50.

For booking call 01702 351135 or visit southendtheatres.org.uk.

Rule Britannia

THE Essex Concert Orchestra celebrates the Queen's 90th birthday with a selection of classical favourites, patriotism and the best of British.

Profits will be donated to the MIND mental health charity.

The concert takes place at Mill Hall, Bellingham Lane, Rayleigh, on Friday, from 7.30pm until 9.30pm.

Tickets are priced between £5 and £8.

Email boxoffice@essexconcertorchestra.org.uk or call 01268 743069.