WALES' best sporting hope may never have reached the heady heights of athletics if it weren't for this Cwmbran man.

Sprint ace and former World Junior Champion Christian Malcolm, began his sporting career as a budding footballer and Jeff Bradbury from Cwmbran took him under his wing.

At the time Jeff was scouting for Nottingham Forrest and secured a trial for Christian.

Sadly his burning ambition to become a football legend was cut short when they discovered he may need glasses.

Jeff pointed him in the direction of an athletics coach so as not to lose an already gifted athlete.

"He was a hell of a footballer," said Jeff.

"Christian was a wonderful kid, he used to come over to my house, which was just down the road from his when we both lived in Newport. He would just sit and read the paper or ask to use the phone and call the girls."

The athlete confirmed that Jeff was an inspiration in his early sporting career.

"He is a top bloke," said Christian.

Jeff was forced into retirement by worsening Multiple Sclerosis, but still holds a keen interest in sport. Now he wants other local youngsters to benefit from his sporting career, giving away thousands of pounds worth Nottingham Forrest Junior Reds kit.

He has a number of spare Junior Reds football kits to give away, in the hope that other young footballers can benefit.

Interested teams can phone Jeff on 01633 666854 for more information.