Athletics: New role for old talents

SEBASTIAN COE, Steve Ovett and Steve Cram are being asked to become personal 'mentors' to promising performers in an effort to help restore the glory days of British middle and long distance running.

A number of former stars have already given their backing in principle to the scheme which the British Athletic Federation hope will help inject new life into the stagnating domestic middle and long distance scene. Promising athletes will link up with a former champion who will act as a shoulder to lean on. The 'mentors' will not interfere with how the athletes are coached but will be available to give advice and help whenever needed.

Frank Dick, the scheme's architect and the national coach, said: 'For too long, we have failed to tap this incredible array of experience and talent at our disposal.'