SPORTS competitors from all over the country will be heading for the Yorkshire coast this weekend to take part in a gruelling event.

Scarborough Olympic Distance Triathlon is to be held for the seventh time on Sunday, when more than 100 hardened athletes are expected to take part.

The first leg starts at 8.30am with a 1,500-metre swim in the North Bay, followed by a 40km cycle ride on the A171 Whitby road, returning through Harwood Dale.

Competitors will finish with a gruelling ten-kilometre run around Northstead, ending in a final dash along the North Promenade.

Race director Nick Butterworth said: "This is one of the most gruelling triathlons in the country with a sea swim and a tough cycle course featuring hills like Cloughton Bank.

"The action centres around the Corner Complex and spectators are welcome to come and watch.

"The event is also good for the town, as many of the triathletes bring their families along for a weekend break," he said.