ATHLETES both able-bodied and with learning difficulties have tasted success recently.

A team of 28 athletes with learning difficulties shone in the recent Special Olympics National Summer Games.

The team - all from the Durham County Council area -travelled to Glasgow, where they won eight gold, 15 silver and eight bronze medals.

The competitors included Joanne Glennie, from the Auckland Gate Centre, in Bishop Auckland, who won a gold, silver and bronze medal in track events.

Wheelchair-bound David Craggs, from the Durham Centre, took two golds for personal achievement in motor activities such as negotiating obstacles, and there were two silvers for the county's five-a-side footballers.

David Jamieson, Special Olympics co-ordinator for Durham County Council, said: "I am proud to be part of this squad, watching the athletes training over months and years to be able to compete at the highest level possible for the individual.

"They are a credit to themselves, the county and the region. On behalf of all the athletes and coaches, I would like to thank the staff, parents and carers for their support and the council for their enthusiasm and backing of the event.

"Without this support, we could not achieve what we did in Glasgow."

The athletes received certificates and gifts from Durham County Council chairman Ernie Foster.