THOUSANDS of potential Olympians descended on Teesside for the regional final of a UK athletics competition.

Teams of under 15s and under 13s proudly represented their counties in the Norwich Union Sports:hall competition at Thornaby Pavilion, Stockton, yesterday.

Winning teams and individuals were announced for coveted places in the national final, taking place in Birmingham's National Indoor Arena on March 20.

Youngsters took great strides to follow in the footsteps of previous champions such as Olympians Mark Lewis-Francis, Kelly Sotherton and Denise Lewis. Paula Radcliffe also competed in Sports:hall as a child.

Mark Lewis-Francis, Norwich Union Sports:hall all-rounder champion in 1998 and ambassador for the scheme, said: "It was a fun introduction to competitive athletics and I didn't have to train out in the cold.

"Norwich Union Sports:hall athletics is an essential part of the preparation of young minds to athletics. It's fun, competitive and teaches you what being part of a team is really about."

Cheering on the Tees Valley team yesterday, Louise Trillo, athletics and club development officer for the area, said: "I'm so proud of them all.

"They've all worked extremely hard for these finals and are true champions.

"The potential of these kids is amazing, I really hope they carry on with the hard work and follow in the footsteps of people like Kelly Homes on the track."

Before the results were announced, Ms Trillo told how the Tees Valley youngsters, wearing red shirts, had already won two gold medals in shot put and standing long jump.

Other events through the day included the high jump, triple jump and obstacle relay.

The Thornaby event is one of 23 being staged across the country during the 2004-2005 season.