ATHLETES who took part in a Special Olympics received awards at a ceremony in Durham City yesterday.

County Durham Care's 17-member team, which took part in the Cardiff games last summer, were presented with their awards at County Hall.

The athletes competed in five-a-side football, table-tennis and athletics events, coming home with a total of 27 medals and ribbons.

County Durham Care has a long history of providing teams to compete locally and nationally, and has enjoyed many successes.

The latest champions were presented with their awards by Chester-le-Street councillor Christine Smith, after Century FM presenter Goffy was unable to attend the ceremony because of illness.

Coun Smith said: "I am so impressed with the commitment and enthusiasm shown by the clients, and their excellent achievement in coming home with 27 medals and ribbons.

"I would like to thank the members of staff, carers and families who have supported them."

David Jamieson, the Special Olympics' main organiser, who was present at the ceremony, said: "It has been a tremendous day for the athletes, who trained for months prior to Cardiff.

"They are looking at a good future in their sport."

The award winners were Michelle Hardy, Angela Best, Fiona Jack, Simon Laing, Joanne Glennie, Mary Appleby, Maureen McGowan, David Bewick, John Yates, William Amos, Ian Allen, Barry Cairns, Mark Johnson, Paul Kerwin, Peter Cooke, Judith Byrne and David Walton.