EX-ROWER NAMED AS IOC MEDICAL CHIEF

Richard Budgett, who won rowing gold with Sir Steve Redgrave in the 1984 Los Angeles Olympics, has been named as the International Olympic Committee's new medical and scientific director.

Dr Budgett, who is currently London 2012's chief medical officer, begins his new job on October 1.

He will be responsible for overseeing medical and anti-doping services during the 2012 Games.

His work will range from organising medical support for athletes and spectators at all venues to carrying out anti-doping tests in association with the World Anti-Doping Agency and the IOC.

He was the team doctor of the British bobsleigh team in 1992 and 1994 before becoming Team GB's chief medical officer for the 1996, 1998, 2000, 2002 and 2004 Games.

He trained in general practice, has worked in sports medicine since 1989 and is a specialist consultant in sport and exercise medicine.

London 2012 will be his 12th Olympic Games.

He takes over from Dr Patrick Schamasch at the IOC who is retiring after 27 years at the international body.