AN EX-INTERNATIONAL athlete from Burnley is set to become ‘the voice of gymnastics’ during the London Olympics.

Craig Heap, 38, himself a former Olympian, double Commonwealth gold medal winner and word championship competitor, has landed the role of expert commentator for BBC Radio 5 Live’s coverage.

Craig, a former Barden High School pupil, will be part of the team broadcasting nationally from the O2 Arena from July 24 to August 7.

Craig, who twice captained England to team gold in the Commonwealth Games, will give his analysis on both the men’s and women’s events and the trampolining competition.

Craig who grew up on a farm in the Reedley area, is anticipating ‘an electric atmosphere’ during the games.

He said: “I’m just thrilled to be a part of the Olympics here in the UK.

“I competed in Sydney in 2000 and it’s bound to be the highlight of any athlete’s career. There couldn’t be any finer venue than the O2 Arena and I’m sure the crowds and excitement surrounding the whole Games will make it a fortnight that everyone will remember.”

Craig started gymnastics at the age of nine, after his parents took him to classes in order to put his hyperactivity to use.

Earlier this week he was among one of the first audiences to watch athletic events in the Olympic Stadium itself, in his role of mentor to elite school athletes.

Another mentor present this week was Burnley hockey player Charlotte Hartley.

Charlotte, 26, from Cliviger, won a bronze medal at the Commonwealth games in Melbourne in 2006. She is a coach with Clitheroe Ladies Hockey Club and a personal trainer.

“The UK school games finals were held there on Wednesday with the best youngsters from around the country competing,” said Craig.

“Charlotte and myself are with the Sporting Champion organisation. We were there to support and advise the kids during the competition.

“Walking into the stadium on Wednesday left me wishing I was 20 years younger.

“It’s going to be some summer.”