ADULTS with learning difficulties or physical disabilities will celebrate their triumph over adversity in a special sporting competition.

They will compete as part of the Commonwealth Games' Spirit of Friendship Festival. A triathlon, ten pin bowling, curling, netball, javelin, discus, shot-put and team relays are some of the events on Friday at Darwen Leisure Centre.

Prizes are being offered to make the sporting event more competitive, but organisers want to main aim to be fun.

It will become an annual event if this year's so-called Commonwealth Challenge is a success.

Blackburn with Darwen Council has organised the event for members of Motivate, a course which develops health and independence through physical activity and social interaction.

The event has been organised so they can put their new found skills to use.

Coun Kate Hollern, executive member for leisure and culture, said: "I am pleased that so many people have risen to our 'Commonwealth Challenge' and taken part in Motivate where they have learned new skills and used these in a fun and competitive way.

"We, at the Council, are delighted at the level of interest shown in this activity and indeed all activities that are taking place in Blackburn and Darwen during this year of big celebration."

The Spirit of Friendship Festival, which began on March 11 and runs until August 10, is meant to be a catalyst for the main event in Manchester by a celebration of the diversity of the UK through sport, education, arts, culture and community events.

The games themselves begin on July 25 for 10 days