THE UK's top Para-swimmer Ellie Simmonds launched a major competition at Glasgow's Tollcross pool.

The star was joined by Glasgow-born European champion Andrew Mullen yesterday for the ticket sales launch of the International Paralympic Committee (IPC) World Championships.

The event is the biggest outside of the Paralympic Games. It is due to take place from July 13 to 19 next year at the Tollcross International Swimming Centre.

Hundreds of swimmers from 50 countries will compete, as they look to place themselves firmly on the map ahead of the Rio 2016 Paralympic Games.

Ellie, who is a four-time Paralympic champion, said: "I'm so excited about the home World Championships.

"Home support was so important during the London 2012 Paralympics and I really love it when the crowd cheer us on.

"I hope that we get big audiences so we can show them how brilliant our sport is.

"Glasgow will be my fourth World Championships and I think it will be really special, I love competing at the top level."

Tickets are available from £10 for adults, while under 16's go free.

Andrew said he couldn't wait to race in front of a home crowd.

He said: "I was born here so I know how passionate the Glasgow residents are about sport.

"I saw how great the support was for swimming during the Commonwealth Games and I really hope that we get the same support in July.

"I was really proud of my city this summer, the Games were great and I know that the World Championships will be just as exciting."

For tickets visit www.ticketmaster.co.uk/promo/v315d2/