Richmond’s Mara Yamauchi has pulled out of theIAAF World Championships marathon in Berlin.

The 35-year-old, sixth in last year’s Olympic mara-thon in Beijing, injured her right foot while training in Japan, where she is now based.

“After thinking it over very carefully, I have come to the conclusion that I will not be able to race competitively in Berlin and decided to withdraw,” she said.

“This was a difficult decision to make as it is always a huge honour to race in a GB vest.

“I have been doing everything possible to help my foot to recover quickly.

“Although it has improved, there is insufficient time left to enable me to prepare properly.

“I will now concentrate on returning to full health and look forward to racing once I am back at my best.

Charles van Commenee, UK Athletics’ head coach, said: “Mara is an athlete of great talent, maturity and professionalism.

“She was also a true medal contender for Berlin and we will miss her presence.

“UKA will work closely with her to help her return to full health.”