16 February 2011

World and European Heptathlon Champion Jessica Ennis has withdrawn from the Aviva Grand Prix in Birmingham on 19 February.

Ennis, who has been suffering from inflammation of the left ankle, has undergone treatment for the past few days in the hope of competing in Birmingham, but progress has been slower than expected.

She said: "With the European Indoor Championships only two and a half weeks away, under the advice of the UKA medical team, and in consultation with my coach, Toni Minichiello, I have decided that racing this weekend is not going to help the healing process.

“I am working with my team to prepare an intense treatment programme and I’m putting all of my energy into being in the best shape for the pentathlon on the 4 March at the Championships in Paris.

“Withdrawing from the Aviva Indoor Grand Prix is not an easy decision and I am really frustrated, but nipping injuries in the bud is really the best thing to do – and I really want to be at my best for Paris."