DUDLEY'S Dell stadium is back in the competition after receiving an award to allow athletic youngsters to compete again.

This comes as good news for bosses at the Bryce Road stadium after months of battling to get a safety certificate to enable them to hold tournaments once again.

UK Athletics, the national governing body for athletics, has awarded the Brierley Hill venue its level one certificate which means the facility is able to hold all levels of competitions from school games to international events.

Competitors in the sport were in fear of losing the popular arena, especially after the closure of Brierley Hill Leisure Centre, but sporting fanatics were over the moon the stadium could be used again after more than £18,000 was invested.

Athletes have been given another reason to celebrate after receiving the official confirmation from the sporting organisation to allow competitions to take place.

Previously The Dell had a restricted level five certificate, which meant no competitions could take place until they had rectified the problems identified by UK Athletics.

Work was carried out to the throwing circle to make it more level and the pole vault bed had a new part fitted which helped to secure the level one certificate.

Following an inspection last month by the governing body, the facility now meets the specification and requirements set to compete under their rules.

Councillor Charles Fraser Macnamara, cabinet member for culture and leisure, said: "We are delighted with the level one certificate and are looking forward to working with the athletics club to promote the sport and to host many events over the next few years.

"Staff at the Dell have already booked up seven athletics meetings for next year and I'm sure more will follow."