Paula Radcliffe has decided not to compete in the marathon at the Commonwealth Games in Manchester.

Instead she will enter either the 5,000m or 10,000m - a choice that will be made nearer to the event, which begins on 25 July.

It is a surprising move for Radcliffe who won the London Marathon in her debut at the distance.

The British athlete recorded the second fastest time ever - two hours, 18 minutes, 56 seconds - just nine seconds outside the world record.

Radcliffe has hinted that she may select the event for the 2004 Athens Olympics.

But for now, she will take the short-cut to glory in Manchester.