World Police and Fire Games cost rises for Northern Ireland
The cost of staging the World Police and Fire Games in Northern Ireland next year has increased by £3m.
They will now cost £14m to host, with the Northern Ireland Executive stumping up £6m and Belfast City Council £500,000.
The games organisers claim the economic benefit has also risen but admit that sponsorship will be a real challenge.
Ten thousand competitors are expected to take part in 65 sports at 35 locations across Northern Ireland.
The games, which will be held from 1-10 August, are expected to attract up to 15,000 visitors.