THERE was a huge blow for Trafford AC and the GB Olympic team with the withdrawal of the Chorlton-based club’s heptathlon star from the Beijing Olympics.

The progress made by Jessica Ennis, 22, in recent months had given her a great chance of a medal but her hopes have been dashed by the news that she has fractured her right ankle.

Jessica had been suffering from a ‘niggle’ before taking part in a meeting in Austria.

This was aggravated during the 110m hurdles and a subsequent scan revealed the full nature of the injury.

Jessica said: "This is very upsetting but part of the life of a heptathlete but I intend to make a full recovery and enjoy a long career in the sport."

Back at Longford Stadium the club are in the midst of hosting their superb Grand Prix meetings, which are the biggest of their kind in the country attracting athletes of all abilities from across the country on Tuesday evenings.

Three have already been completed and the others will be staged on June 17, July 1, July 15, July 29, August 12, 26 and September 9.

A feature of the events is the staging of the British Millers Club’s 800m and 1500m races.

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