Britton fades to fourth

Irish hopes of a medal from the European track and field championships in Helsinki were dashed on the final day when leading hope Fionnuala Britton finished fourth in the women’s 10,000m in 32:05.54, over half a minute outside the time which qualified her for the Olympic Games on her debut over the distance.

Victory went to her old sparring partner, Dulce Felix (Portugal), 31:44.75, with 38 year-old Jo Pavey (Britain) winning the race for second in 31:49.04, as the Irish athlete faded in the closing laps after dominating much of the race.

Britton, the European cross-country champion took the lead at 2,000m (6:28.64) and went on to lead the field through halfway in a modest 15:59.