Scan result will decide Paula's fate

Paula Radcliffe was today awaiting the results of a make-or-break scan to determine her chances of making the Olympic marathon line-up in Beijing next month.

The world record holder and 2005 world champion is fighting to be fit after suffering a stress fracture in her left leg - but she has started limited training at her base in Font Romeu, France.

Radcliffe arrived in London yesterday for a scan at the British Olympic Association medical centre at Northwick Park Hospital in Harrow and is expecting the results this afternoon.

Olympic doctors and UK Athletics staff will assess the injury and advise Radcliffe as to whether it is worth her continuing with her gruelling recovery programme.

The 34-year-old is desperate to make the Great Britain team as she chases the only major medal that has eluded her.

Sian Masterton, Radcliffe's agent, said: "Paula is back running and training at high intensity. The goal is very much to be in Beijing."