Over 2,500 to take part in Community Games finals

Over 2,500 children between the ages of 6 and 16 are taking part today in the national finals of the Community Games in Athlone.

Participants drawn from 31 counties will compete in a range of events ranging from cycling on grass to variety performance and skittles.

Meanwhile 250 volunteers will help ensure the day runs smoothly.

"We've got a huge number of people involved," said Fiachra O'Mathuna, CEO of the HSE Community Games.

"Many thousands of people have happy memories of the Community Games over the past 40 years," he said.

"It gives everyone a feelgood factor and it doesn't cost anything to get involved - it's about getting people locally involved in their community through volunteering and participating."