Karen Addison has been deselected from the British women's curling team for the Vancouver 2010 Winter Olympics.

Addison, 39, was the alternate in the squad alongside Eve Muirhead, Kelly Wood, Jackie Lockhart and Lorna Vevers.

But she took no part in the team's last two tournaments, and British Curling have confirmed her place in the squad will instead be taken by Annie Laird.

"We are confident this change will not impact on performance in Vancouver," said British Curling's Chris Hildrey.

"It concerns a change to the alternate position, rather than the team on the ice.

"The fifth player provides cover in the event of illness or injury, and we believe Annie is an excellent new alternate who can provide the necessary back-up. We wish this new line-up every success."

The British women's team, who won Olympic gold at Salt Lake City in 2002, are considered one of Britain's stronger medal chances at next month's Games in Canada.

Glasgow-based Addison turned 39 on Tuesday

British Curling will now hope this late change to the line-up does not affect their preparation.

No reason was given for the move to deselect Addison, although British Curling stated she had declined to appeal against the decision.

Laird, also 39, has experience at curling's top level having won World Championship gold with Lockhart in 2002.

Addison has a World Championship bronze medal and two European silvers, but has never played in a Winter Olympics.

Her sister, Kirsty Hay, finished fourth as women's skip at the 1998 Nagano Winter Olympics.

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