"Why I fell out of the running"

A talented heptathlete who helped bring the Games to London told today how her hopes of competing at 2012 were derailed by poor facilities.

Jessica Manning, who went to Langdon School in Newham, was one of 30 youth ambassadors chosen to showcase the borough during the Olympic bid.

But her ambitions went off course last year when Ilford Athletic Club's Cricklefields track, off Ilford High Road, closed for repairs.

This quadrupled her journey to 15 miles, and she struggled to get from her East Ham home to Lee Valley Athletics Centre in Edmonton: "I ended up training less and less. If I'd had help with transport or travel costs I might still be on track. If 2012 leaves one legacy it should be that young athletes can get access to the best tracks and equipment so they can achieve their potential."

Now 19, Jessica lives in Canada with her family and will restart serious training when she goes to college next year. Her friends have launched a Facebook group called Jessica Manning To Take Part In 2012 Olympics.

(A close friend of mine)

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