A NORTH-East ultimate frisbee team is getting ready to play sides from across the country at a home tournament ahead of taking on the best in the world later this year.

Durham-based SMOG are taking part in the event at Maiden Castle this weekend.

The fast-paced sport is growing in popularity, with almost 40 teams expected to take part in the two-day event.

The team are getting ready for the World Ultimate Club Championships, which take place in the US in July.

Annie Glasspool, from Gilesgate, said: “This weekend will be loads of fun. It’s always great playing on home turf, and getting to sleep in your own bed, plus it’s meant SMOG has fielded four teams, and 60 players, which is awesome.”

She added: “I’m really looking forward to worlds. It’s going to be incredible to see some of the best players in the world, let alone match up against them.”

The team is looking for sponsors to help with the cost of worlds. Anyone interested should email smogultimate@gmail.com.

The tournament this weekend takes place on Saturday and Sunday and is free to watch.