TWO Oxford archers say that they will sleep in tents to compete at the Common-wealth Games.

Stuart Wilson, representing Northern Ireland, and England’s Nichola Simpson have devoted a huge chunk of their lives to making the team for Delhi.

And they are not about to let the opportunity of winning a medal slip away.

“I have waited 20 years to compete in a tournament of this stature,” said Wilson.

“I will sleep in a tent to take part – it means everything.”

And Simpson echoed his sentiments.

“The shooting area is safe, so give me a tent as well – we’ll be fine.”

The four home nations have all expressed their concerns over the poor quality of the athletes’ village in Delhi, which could put the entire event in doubt.

A number of high-profile athletes have already said that they will not compete because of risks over their safety.

But the 11 Oxfordshire competitors selected are all intending to take part – providing their countries allow them.

England are “optimistic” they will compete, but say urgent work is needed before the Games begin on October 3.

Scottish officials claimed their original accommodation was “unsafe and unfit for human habitation”.

Welsh officials said that they are content with their headquarters despite claims that dogs were found on beds designated for their team.

Northern Ireland have lined up possible alternative accommodation.

Simpson, 53, who lives in Marston, is due to fly out on Sunday, and says she is confident there will be no problems.

“I had an email from our team manager and while the athletes’ village is not finished yet, they are very optimistic it will be by the time we get there,” she said.

“I gave up work two-and-a-half years ago to train for this. As soon as it is over I’ll have to get a job again as it has been a real struggle financially, so I am desperate to get out there.”

Wilson, 34, who came to Oxford in 2000, works at Oxford University and lives in Wallingford.

John Paul, who will represent Scotland in cycling’s team sprint event, picked up a silver medal in the same event at the British National Championships in Manchester on Tuesday.

Meanwhile, former Rad-ley athlete Hatti Dean is relieved she won’t be in Delhi next month.

She said: “I think in all respects the decision not to go was the right one for me.

“It’s a bit of a relief now, to be honest.

“It was initially quite a tough decision not to go, but I made it partly because the European Championships were my main focus and partly because of the risks involved.

“I think the security risks played a big part.”