In their statement, the athletes hail the north of England's "world-class venues", claiming it can build on the legacy of London 2012.

"The International Olympic Committee and International Paralympic Association's multi-city model makes a distributed Games more viable than ever before," they write.

"A 'Great North' Games would be a national Games. It would bring the country together in common purpose. It would showcase the very best of Great Britain.

"We believe that hosting a Games in the North of England in 2040 would be a moment of renewal and confidence for the entire United Kingdom. We are proud to add our voices to this vision and to support a Northern Games that would inspire generations to come."

Ex-gymnast Beth Tweddle, and former athletes Sir Brendan Foster, Steve Cram and Allison Curbishley are among other signatories.

In February, a group of northern political leaders urged the government to ensure any future Olympic bid would be based in the region, claiming there was a "compelling" case.

North East Mayor Kim McGuinness said: "The support of athletes who have represented Great Britain on the biggest stage of all is hugely significant. They understand better than anyone the power of the Olympic and Paralympic Games to inspire, unite and transform lives.

"A Great North Olympics would be a global showcase, powered by the pride and participation of Northern communities, leaving a legacy of prosperity, unity and renewal. This growing movement of support shows the strength of feeling behind the idea and the opportunity it presents for the whole country.

"We're grateful to every athlete who has added their name to this vision and look forward to working together as we take the next steps."

London Mayor Sir Sadiq Khan has criticised the government's plans for a possible north of England bid, saying that excluding the capital city would be "a missed opportunity".