TOP athletes from around the country will descend on the North-East tomorrow when they take part in the triathlon trials for the Commonwealth Games.

The event is being held at the Tees Barrage, where more than 50 elite men and 25 elite women will be battling for a place at the Games in Manchester in July.

Along with the elite races, the open races have attracted more than 100 entrants.

The first race starts at 7am, taking the athletes about one and a half hours to complete. This will be followed at 9am by the elite women and 11.15am by the elite men.

Among those taking part is Jodie Swallow, who has just won the Vulcan Triathlon, in Lanzarote, and defending champion Richard Stannard.

Debbie Curgenven, sports development officer for Stockton Borough Council, said: "We are absolutely delighted to be hosting this prestigious event involving the cream of British athletes.

"This is just the beginning for Stockton and we hope to be hosting many more events such as this on the River Tees."

A number of road closures will be in place around the Tees Barrage tomorrow.

Between 7am and 1pm, the Tees Barrage Road will be closed from its junction with the A66, while both Princeton Drive and Harvard Avenue will also be closed. Diversions will be in place.

The event is being broadcast on BBC2 Grandstand on Sunday from 4.45pm to 6.15pm.