SUNNY weather is predicted for the Commonwealth Games -- prompting a warning for spectators converging on Bolton for the cycling events to cover themselves up.

According to experts, there could be a risk of sunstroke and dehydration among the 100,000-strong crowd expected to travel to Rivington for three days of cycling action.

There will be a mountain bike circuit of more than four miles and a road circuit of seven miles.

Sports fans lining the routes are being warned to apply sunscreen and to take a supply of water.

An emergency squad will be on hand to deal with people who fall ill. It will include representatives from the Greater Manchester Ambulance Service, St John Ambulance and Bolton Mountain Rescue. Garry Rhodes, team leader of Bolton Mountain Rescue, said: "We have been rehearsing in recent weeks. Sunstroke and dehydration could be a problem and we urge people to take every precaution, just as they would if they go abroad.

"The problems will stem from people standing around for hours before, during and after the cycling."

A spokesman for the PA Weathercentre said it was difficult to make a conclusive estimate two weeks in advance, but that indications pointed to "a fair share of sun".

Time trials take place on Saturday, July 27, with mountain bike events on Monday, July 29, and road race finals on Saturday, August 3. There is a practise day on Wednesday, July 24.