Thackray, who gained a first-class honours degree in micro biology at Sheffield University and who is now nearing completion of a PhD in molecular biology, is a class act athlete.

She has already represented Yorkshire and the North of England several times, and has turned out for Great Britain on four occasions, the last time being over the cross country in Holland in early May 1999.

Thackray, who started her running career with Spenborough before moving to Hallamshire and now to Wakefield, is primarily a road and cross country runner. She won the North of England cross country title in 1998. But she is also a more-than-useful track performer as her AAA 5000m bronze medal in 1998 testifies.

Thackray, who was cleared to represent Wakefield in team event from July 1, (and her mascot Sooty who travels everywhere with her) will hopefully be in the points at Wakefield's next league match at Coventry on Sunday July 4.