TICKET applications for next year's Commonwealth Games are flooding in, according to organisers.

Interest in the 10-day event is booming with many forms being picked up after yesterday's launch.

And the message from Games chiefs is: "Act now to get your place".

Manchester United skipper Roy Keane and City player Shaun Goater launched the ticket sales at Manchester' Velodrome along with heptathlon star Denise Lewis and 800-metre wheelchair athlete Tanni Grey-Thompson.

Application forms for the 17 events are available from supermarket giants Asda, from commonwealthgames.com, or by dialing 0870 1662 2002.

The Games will run from July 25 to August 4, 2002, and events include badminton at Bolton Arena and cycling at Rivington. More than half of the tickets will cost £10 or less although cycling is one of six free events.

Neils de Vos, Manchester 2002 commercial director, said: "We're offering a once in a lifetime experience and certainly the most exciting occassion that will take place in this country next year.

"Our ticketing policy allows people to obtain tickets in the fairest way."