Katharine Merry, who won a 400-metre bronze medal at the 2000 Sydney Olympics, has retired from professional athletics and is now helping nurture the next generation of British athletes.

Speaking at the County Sports Partnership 2007 Seminar at Sookholme's John Fretwell Sporting Complex on Friday, the former indoor world record holder told Chad the future of British sport is looking bright.

• Click the green 'play' icon to watch video footage of Katherine Merry's speech, as well interviews with her and recent Shape Up Notts! success story Ruth Truswell.

The seminar brought together professionals from the world of sport, local authorities, health, education and business to show how the partnership is working to deliver quality outcomes.

And Katharine told Chad it is important that youngsters try a variety of sports when they are growing up but they must work hard to achieve their goals.

"We always have talented youngsters but we have to motivate and nurture them and the London Olympics are a massive incentive," she said.

"You have to be dedicated, make sacrifices and have the determination and drive to succeed.

"Being passionate is very important, not everyone can be the best but everyone can try –– you just have to go out there and have a go."
Katharine says that anyone wishing to improve their physical fitness should try out a Shape Up Notts! fitness programme.

"Shape up Notts! is a fantastic venture that allows you to log and keep track of your activity, to get you healthier and fitter.

"To me this is a no brainer –– a free service that assists you becoming healthier and more active. Well done Shape up Notts!"
And mum-of-two Ruth Truswell and recent Shape Up Notts! success story says maintaining her fitness programme has helped change her life.

"I think it is a really good motivational tool and I would recommend it to other people –– it keeps you going and you are able to compare how much you did this month to last month or six months ago."