Edwards set to re-open case

Athletics

The British Athletic Federation have confirmed that they have received an approach from Paul Edwards, the international shot putter who was banned for four years after two positive drugs tests.

Edwards wrote asking for further information on the tests, which were carried out in Helsinki and London in the space of three days in August 1994.

Later that month, he was sent home from the Commonwealth Games in Canada, along with Diane Modahl.

Edwards, who made nearly 50 appearances for Britain, waived his right to a BAF hearing and accepted the ban. But the 36-year-old, who was charged with taking anabolic steroids, is now said to be seeking to reopen the case.

The BAF spokesman, Tony Ward, said: "We have received letters. There is no question of an appeal now. But an athlete can argue exceptional circumstances."

Modahl appealed successfully against a four-year ban. She is now waiting for the International Amateur Athletic Federation to set a date for an arbitration hearing.