TRACK And field athletes from Australia are using training facilities in the North-East as they prepare for the Commonwealth Games in Glasgow.

The Athletics Australia team, which includes 99 athletes, coaches and specialists will use the indoor and outdoor training facilities at Gateshead International Stadium, prior to the games, which open on July 23.

The team includes the 2012 Olympic 100m hurdle champion Sally Pearson, javelin World Championship medallist Kim Mickle and Australian record holders Melissa Breen (100m), Alana Boyd (pole vault), Ryan Gregson (500m), Ben St Lawrence (10,000m) and Benn Harradine (discus throw).

During their stay in Gateshead some of the athletes, as well as taking part in essential pre-competition training, will also be taking part in special athletics clinics and school visits to inspire young athletes of the future.

Gateshead Council’s cabinet member for culture, sport and leisure, Councillor Peter Mole said: “It’s fantastic to welcome such a large team from Australia to Gateshead ahead of the Commonwealth Games.

“Our training facilities are of a very high standard which was an essential factor in Gateshead’s selection by Athletics Australia prior to competing in such a prestigious sporting event.

“I am sure the whole team will enjoy their time with us and experience the warm North-East hospitality we are so proud of. It’s sure to help their preparations for the tough days of world class competition ahead.”

This is the second biggest team ever to compete for Australia in track and field since competing in Melbourne in 2006 and has 44 athletes who will make their own open age major championship debut.

Simon Nathan, of Athletics Australia, said: “We are very happy to be in this region of England, which provides not only similar conditions to what we can expect in Glasgow, but also a friendly and welcoming environment in which athletes can focus on becoming their best.”