By Ross Fletcher

The glittering opening ceremony will take place at the Walkers Stadium

One of Britain's biggest multi-sport events of the year starts on Saturday when the Special Olympics GB National Summer Games kicks off in Leicester.

About 2,700 athletes with learning disabilities will compete in 21 events until 31 July.

Competitors will take part in a variety of activities including athletics, swimming, football, kayaking, ten-pin bowling and Kwik Cricket.

The opening ceremony takes place at the Walkers Stadium on Saturday.

Learning disability drama groups from Leicester will take part and costumes for the ceremony have been created by local school children, while there will be musical and sporting performances.

Among the patrons for the event is BBC presenter Gary Lineker, who says he is proud that his native city will host the event.

"I think it's terrific that Leicester can put on a big games like the Special Olympics," he said. "It's great for the city and it's great for the athletes."

The build-up to the event has been overshadowed by a funding shortfall, with Leicester council tax payers picking up an £800,000 bill after organisers failed to reach their sponsorship target, but Special Olympics Leicester chairman Ted Cassidy believes the effort will be worthwhile.

"The city were very behind us bidding for the Games and they have come up trumps with the funding," he said. "This is great for the city and it will raise its profile more than anything.

"It is going to bring in 10,000 people at least who will be spending money in the city."

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