THERE are few people involved in domestic athletics who haven't come across Sale Harriers coaching supreme Eric Hughes.

He has helped the Wythenshawe Park club become one of the strongest, not only in England, but in Europe.

Indeed, Sale, in their latest ambassadorial role, will represent Great Britain and the European Clubs track and field championship in Moscow this September.

But for all his vast experience Hughes has never attended a major international meeting - until now.

"I've prepared plenty of athletes for World Championships, Olympic Games and Commonwealth Games. But I've never actually attended a big games myself," he said.

'Tracksuit man'

"I am sure its going to be a great experience. The only frustrating thing for me is that I can't be with the athletes down by the track. I am a tracksuit man but we're told we must sit in the stands like everyone else.

"However, I think it will be a superb occasion and to have 12 athletes representing Sale Harriers at the Games is superb.

"I'll be particularly looking out for our two girls in the hammer competition, Lorraine Shaw and Laura Douglas. It's going to be hard for Laura to make the final but this is agreat experience for her.

"She's only just returned from the World Junior Championship in Jamaica. And she's already told me she wishes to compete at the National Junior Premier League match we've got at Wakefield on Sunday.

"She's been appreciative of the help Sale have given her and this is her way of saying thanks.

"As well as the girls we've also got Jon Wild in the 10,000 metres and Stuart Stokes going in the heats of the steeplechase.

"And of course everyone is looking forward to seeing Darren Campbell in action later in the Games. Darren has never forgotten his roots and every time he comes back to the club, he always has a big smile and an autograph for the youngsters.

"There's only one thing wrong with Darren - he supports Man United. As a Man City supporter I'm always having a joke with him but now he's got to run in 'our' stadium.