It takes place on Saturday, January 30 at Northwood Stadium, from 7pm and the first 1,000 tickets are available from today at stoke.gov.uk/OnYourMarks.

You can also register to take part in a massive dance routine on the pitch of Northwood Stadium on the same day, as part of the celebrations. No experience is required, just lots of enthusiasm. Sports clubs and active community groups are also being invited to take part in a people’s parade during the event. For more information and to register your interest please call 01782 235104 or email here

Called On Your Marks, the opening ceremony will involve hundreds of performers and will focus not only on the great sporting achievements of the city and the sports stars it has produced, but also the wonderful artistic and cultural legacy it has given to the world.

There will be school groups, local sporting heroes, music, dance, film, digital projection, sporting showcases, a people’s parade and a firework finale.

Tickets will be released in stages so we would urge you to book yours now to avoid disappointment. For further details and to book your tickets, go to stoke.gov.uk/OnYourMarks.