YOUNG athletes from Worcestershire descend on South-ampton this weekend for the first national BAA Millennium Youth Games grand final.

A 91-strong team representing the county and Herefordshire sets off today for what is billed as one of the biggest sporting events ever held in this country.

The teams qualified through winning their respective events at the Worcestershire and Herefordshire final, held at Worcester's Nunnery Wood Sports Centre and Worcester Swimming Pool back in May.

Six different districts are represented, with Wychavon having three teams in the boys' basketball, mixed tennis and girls' rugby.

Worcester fly the flag in the girls' basketball and netball, Bromsgrove provide the mixed swimming and girls' football teams, while Malvern Hills are in the girls' hockey, Wyre Forest in the boys' hockey and Redditch in the athletics.

A total of 6,500 youngsters from all over the country aged between 13-15 will compete in eight different team sports at the event, starting on Friday and finishing on Sunday.

The Worcestershire teams have high hopes of success in their various events although team manager Amanda Smith acknowledges it will be tough.

She said: "Obviously we are competing against districts which have had a little history in this type of competition.

"In that sense it is a new initiative for us, but I am sure we will adapt easily and do well.

"Ultimately we just want to compete in the competitions and gain experience, but if anyone was to win that will be a bonus, as it is the first time we have competed.

"Alongside the sporting competitions, the games boast a full entertainment, cultural and education programme. This philosophy of participation, education and entertainment will give all competitors an experience to cherish."

The sports will have preliminary round-robin competitions on Friday and Saturday with the finals on Sunday.

Several top athletes such as Roger Black, Sally Gunnell and Jon Ridgeon will also be in attendance at the event, organised by Sport England, and there will be master classes and taster sessions for several unfamiliar sports.

Deputy Prime Minister John Prescott will officially open the Games on Friday.