Croydon Harrier Donna Fraser admitted she was "honoured" to be announced as the next vice-president of UK Athletics.

The 42-year-old will officially take up the role at the group's AGM on December 4.

Fraser is a four-time Olympian, who came fourth in the 400m at the Sydney Games in 2000, and she has been a Croydon Harrier all her athletic life.

She said: “I am thrilled and absolutely honoured to be offered this role. It’s something that I never thought would come my way, but I think I can do a great job for the sport and it is really good to be involved in this way.

“I have always stayed involved in the sport since retiring [in 2009] and still attend events and club nights, and this allows me to be further reconnected with athletics.

“I think I can bring something to the UK Members Council. I am still in touch with so many within the sport and people are really open and honest with me about their thoughts and I hope I can represent them well."

She added: “It is such an exciting time with Rio next year and then our London World Athletics Championships in 2017 – I know we can take the sport to another level.”

Jason Gardener, who will take up the role of president, said: “Donna's experience as an avid Croydon Harrier club athlete and also the team captain at the Beijing Games in 2008 will provide a significant benefit to the sport of athletics in the UK. 

"Donna has an enviable reputation among the athletics community from grass root athletics right through to the elite level.

“I am looking forward to utilising Donna's experience and contribution to enhance athletics throughout the UK as we embark on a very important and exciting time for our sport.”