TWO of the region's biggest sporting events, which attract thousands of spectators and competitors, are being held on the same day - raising fears of traffic chaos.

But organisers say plans are already being put in place to avoid potential traffic problems during the sporting weekend, later this year.

Arrangements are being made more than four months ahead of the Darlington 10k Road Run and the British Superbikes Championship at Croft Circuit, which will take place on the same weekend.

Last year, up to 30,000 fans packed Croft for the North Yorkshire circuit's biggest event of the year.

A similar number is expected this year for the third appearance of the Superbikes at Croft, taking place on the weekend of August 12 and 13.

On the Sunday of that weekend, more than 1,000 runners will be expected to take to the streets of Darlington, only six miles north of the Croft Circuit, for the annual 10k Road Run.

Officials at the circuit are shortly due to meet police in North Yorkshire and County Durham to ensure spectators will be able to get to Croft safely for the 10th round of this year's championship.

Last year's Darlington 10K attracted a record entry of 1,100 runners - many preparing for the Great North Run - and a similar number are expected to take part again this time.

Numbers in the town will be swelled by thousands of supporters cheering the runners along the route.

Roads will be closed during the event and diversions will be in place.

The route is expected to be similar to last year's, but it has not been finalised because of work on the pedestrianisation of the town centre.

A Darlington Borough Council spokesman said: "We have held discussions with the police and are happy for the Darlington 10K to go ahead on Sunday, August 13.

"We will also be talking to Croft Circuit to discuss traffic management. As always, a major diversion plan will be in place so there will be plenty of signage and directions for any motorists wanting to get from the town to Croft."