Jamie Baulch won gold back in 1999

The 29-year-old claimed the world indoor 400 metres title back in 1999 and is hopeful of repeating the success in this weeks championship.

The Cardiff sprinter has had to overcome injury problems to compete, but has happy memories of the National Indoor Arena after setting a UK record of 45.39 seconds there in 1997.

"I'm as fit as I was in 1999. My training has been going well. I'm happy with the way it's gone," said Baulch.

If I can get close to my best time again, I shall be happy. It's a matter of me mentally getting it right on the day. Jamie Baulch

"I've been doing speed work for the past two weeks and I've got a bit of my nippiness back. And the one thing I really like is there is no pressure on me.

"I've been dogged with injury for so long that, in a way, I'm just happy I'm racing again.

Baulch was disqualified from the final of the Norwich Union World Indoor Trials and AAA Championships earlier this month.

However, he revealed that he has got over the disappointment by watching recordings of his previous Birmingham victories.

"It was quite nice because it reminded me of how I have always enjoyed racing in Birmingham," he added.

"If I can get close to my best time again, I shall be happy. It's a matter of me mentally getting it right on the day.