TEAM England today announced a strong squad to compete in the athletics events at the Manchester 2002 Commonwealth Games.

The talented squad includes a host of past Commonwealth, European and Olympic medallists, including Paula Radcliffe, Jonathan Edwards, Steve Backley, Tony Jarrett and Ashia Hansen.

Paula Radcliffe, winner of this year's women's London Marathon, competes in the 5000m event at Manchester 2002. Kelly Holmes runs in the women's 800m and 1500m, while Jade Johnson and 1998 gold medallist Jo Wise head a strong challenge in the long jump.

Veteran Tony Jarrett defends the110m hurdles title he won at Kuala Lumpur and England boasts a particularly strong line-up in the men's sprint relay.

Gateshead Harrier Jonathan Edwards bids to add a Commonwealth gold in the triple jump to his Olympic and World Cup golds. Steve Backley competes in the javelin - an event he won in 1994 and in which he was silver medallist in 1998.

England won 33 athletics medals at the Kuala Lumpur Games, including 10 golds. Ann Hogbin, Chef de Mission of Team England, said: "I would like to welcome our track and field athletes to the Team England squad and wish them an enjoyable and successful Commonwealth Games."

Track and field events take place at the magnificent City of Manchester Stadium. Events begin on 26th July and conclude on 30th July. Sport England has invested £3.5 million of lottery funding specifically to boost Team England's prospects at the Manchester 2002 Commonwealth Games.