ALMOST 6,000 young athletes will take part this weekend in the biggest ever Greater Manchester Youth Games.

And around 400 talented youngsters representing Bury will be seeking to make their borough the best of the ten Metropolitan districts pitting their talents in sixteen different sports over two days.

Boys and girls ranging in ages from Under 9 to Under 18 will compete in team and individual events including cricket, soccer and table tennis together will less publicised sports such as volleyball, lacrosse and boccia.

But once again the most popular event will be Athletics, staged for the first time at Longford Park, the home of Stretford Athletics Club, where 1,250 youngsters will take part.

The hopes of Bury landing the coveted crown rest on the shoulders of their squad members who progressed from trial matches to a six month training stint designed to ensure they are in the best possible shape for the weekend schedule.

For further information about the Games contact Bury Metro's Sports Development Office on 0161-253 5893.

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