England to send 371-strong contingent to CWG

London: Fear of a dengue epidemic in the Indian capital notwithstanding, England today said that they would be sending a 371-strong contingent of athletes to next

month`s Commonwealth Games. England`s chef de mission Craig Hunter has briefed the athletes and advised them to wear long-sleeve tops, trousers and issued with mosquito (repellent) sprays for protection during the October 3-14 event. "It is monsoon season now but they anticipate that the season will be over by the time of the Games. The problem with Dengue fever is standing water and the sun needs to come out for it all to dry up," Hunter quoted as saying. "We have briefed all the sports and given them an insight into the challenges they face but our athletes are well prepared," he said. Dengue cases climbed to 1,580 today with 68 more patients testing positive in the national capital. "There was never any doubt (of England not going to the CWG)," Hunter said. Although England`s athletes would be treated to a "unique and fascinating Games" the team would still offer advice to those seeking to venture outside the athletes village. "The great thing about the Commonwealth Games is that it offers such diverse culture," he said. PTI