London-based sports trust Greenwich Leisure (GLL) has appointed an athletics development manager to maximise opportunities for young athletes in the lead up to London 2012.

Kristine Monaghan will develop a programme of athletics activities for all abilities, including supporting local schools and clubs to give them access GLL's facilities.

Steve Ward, head of marketing and brands for GLL, said: "Kristine's appointment is part of our commitment to engage communities in a wider range of sports, including athletics.

"Our aim is to create a pathway from schools through to clubs and potentially on to elite sport.

"GLL is proud to have recently launched the GLL Sport Foundation, to ensure we have both top level centres and a range of sporting initiatives to develop potential and inspire people in the community to take up sport."

Kristine, who was previously a regional manager for England Athletics and is a member of Highgate Harriers, said: "My role at GLL will give me an opportunity to make a difference - helping talented athletes as well as motivating young people by building confidence and skills through sport in the community. It's a challenging, but very rewarding position."