ATHLETES with learning difficulties will be taking part in a sports event next week.

More than 150 people from across County Durham will compete in the Sports Day at the Riverside Sports Complex in Chester-le-Street.

Events will include javelin, sprints, relay and tug-of-war.

Last year, 17 athletes from County Durham Care centres competed in the Special Olympics National Games in Cardiff and among the sportsmen and women taking part on Wednesday will be five selected to represent Britain in the Special Olympics World Games in 2003.

John Burnip, of County Durham Care, who helped to organise the day, said: "This is a terrific event which everyone enjoys."