THEY'VE followed her career every step of the way - and Paula Radcliffe is a hero in the eyes of her former school in Kingsley.

The 28-year-old runner recorded the second fastest time in women's history on her debut in the 26.2-mile race.

And nowhere was it celebrated more than at Kingsley Primary School, which has the kit that Paula wore in the Sydney Olympic Final on display in the school entrance.

Following her London Marathon success, pupils at the school have sent Paula their own congratulations cards.

Headteacher Andrew Rowe said: "She still keeps in touch with us via e-mail. She is something of a hero to the children.

Superb

"The children follow her career with great interest and she's a superb role model for them."

Last Friday Paula talked to The Times educational supplement about her school days at Kingsley Primary.

She said: "I enjoyed school. It was friendly, really great.

"I started running while I was at Kingsley Primary. Another girl there a member of the local harriers and a teacher called Mike Leith both encouraged me.

"Mr Leith was very supportive from the beginning.

"I think he used to see me run in inter-school matches - that was when he decided I could be good.

"I would have started running anyway but he gave me a push in that direction.

She added: '"He and a teacher called Mrs Feather were very good teachers. I was always happy in their classes.

"It was a very friendly school with a good headteacher, Andrew Rowe."

vkandel@guardian

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