A TEAM of athletes from the North-East is trying to raise £17,000 towards going to the Special Olympics Summer Games.

Special Olympics Gateshead will be sending 32 of its athletes to the games, which are being held in Sheffield in 2017.

Keith Hogan, chair of Special Olympics Gateshead, said: “It’s a huge honour for a Special Olympics athlete to be selected for the Summer Games. The competition is held only once every four years. It gives competitors the chance to perform on a huge stage and create memories that will last a lifetime.”

Two companies are helping the team raise the funds they need to cover transport and accommodation fees.

And as well as fundraising, staff from SOS Group, a Team Valley print management company, and Jury’s Inn Gateshead joined athletes for a training session at Gateshead Stadium.

Andrew Skelton, director at SOS Group, says: “The Summer Games will, quite rightly, shine a spotlight on these wonderful athletes and hopefully even more people will recognise their achievements as a result.

“Their enthusiasm, skills and determination shone through today and it was a privilege to join in their training session.”

Athlete Gavin Connolly, from Ryton, said: “I can’t wait to take part. I was very pleased when I heard the news about Sheffield and I’m hoping to get a personal best."

Special Olympics Gateshead has 88 athletes taking part and qualified coaches who provide training in archery, athletics, boccia, cycling, football, swimming, table tennis, ten pin bowling and powerlifting