The Bank of Scotland Talented Athletes Squad for 2005-06 comprises 159 athletes -all aged 16 to 23. Many schools athletes have been included. They will receive expert coaching and money for travelling.

Former Commonwealth 10,000m champion Liz McColgan is to nurture Scotland’s under-15 endurance squad. Some are aiming at the Great Britain team for the 2012 Olympic Games in London. Fifteen athletes aged 15 to 18 have been selected. They will meet four times a year.

“This is not about coaching,” she explained. “That is for their personal coaches. But I want to be able to share my experience and knowledge. I understand many of the problems and difficulties that young athletes can encounter.”