Athletes from the North-East are hoping for Olympic success in a competition for people with learning difficulties.

Ten athletes, from County Durham Care's day centres, will be part of the northern regional team competing in the Special Olympics National Athletics Competition next weekend in Portsmouth.

They will be taking part in track events and shot putting contests against fellow athletes from all parts of the country.

At the games in Cardiff two years ago, Durham's competitors clinched several medals and the hope is that this time they will repeat that success.

The athletes were selected for their ability, attitude and commitment to training.

Colin Bainbridge, who is co-ordinating the team, said: "In my opinion the medals aren't the be all and end all. It is the ethos and the lifestyle that the Olympic ideal encourages.

"The events are designed so you are competing against people of a similar ability and give you the chance to try to improve your own personal time.''

The chairman of Durham County Council, Councillor Alan Fenwick, who met the team, said: "I'm a great supporter of people with learning difficulties being involved in things and being part of the community.

"It is wonderful to see that they have the chance to participate in games with a high status.''

The athletes heading south next Thursday are: Neil Curtis, from Durham Centre; Philip Holmes, Future Horizons, Annfield Plain; Pamela Lunn, Harmire Unit, Barnard Castle; Paul Summerson, Empower 2, Chester-le-Street; Michael Robson, Ian Allen and Joanne Glennie, Aucklandgate Centre, Bishop Auckland; David Rich-ardson, Brian Devine and John Swainson, Shinwell Centre, Peterlee.