ATHLETES from Special Olympics Worcestershire are set for an adventure after being selected for the Great Britain Squad competing at the European Youth Games in Rome.

Four members of the club, which is based at the Ryland Centre, have had their excellent form recognised by selectors.

Ben O'Brien, aged 13, 18-year-old Amelia Martin and Fiona Clarke will be competing in the sprint events on the track, while 16-year-old swimmer Jessica Geier will be trying to win medals in the 25-metres and 50m events.

Each athletes needs £500 each to fund their travel and accommodation costs for the European games.

Ben's father, Dave O'Brien, said: "It's going to be a wonderful experience for all those going.

"Unfortunately the children all need a hand generating the money to pay for travel to Italy.

"But these guys really deserve to be competing in one of the most famous cities in the world.

"They will meet competitors like themselves from many other countries and they will make friends and experience things they will never forget."

Over 1,400 competitors from 57 countries will be taking part in the games, which is also the first tournament to concentrate on athletes aged between 12 and 21-years-old.

l The club have also had two athletes selected to compete in the 2007 Beijing Games.

Sophie Lane and Amelia Martin are part of the Great Britain team going to China and will need to generate £2000 for travel and accommodation in order to go. Gymnastics coach Leslie Andrew is also going to China.

If interested in sponsoring one of the athletes at Special Olympic Worcestershire call Mr O'Brien on 07791 713407, or 01527 874634.