STROUD and District Athletic Club are now firmly on the world map after securing the services of Olympic marathon star Dan Robinson.

The Nailsworth based 31-year-old international runner admitted a number of circumstances had persuaded him to come home after leaving West Midlands outfit Tipton Harriers.

Robinson said: "I often run with members of the club and my brother George is also a member. I felt it was the right thing to do and it is something I have wanted to do for some time- I'm delighted to be in the Stroud colours."

Chris Bourne, vice chairman of Stroud and District Athletics Club was delighted to welcome Robinson.

He said: "This is fantastic news for the club and a tremendous honour to have an Olympian running at the club.

" To hear Steve Cram and Brendan Foster mentioning Dan's home club Stroud when he takes part in the Commonwealth Games next month will be fantastic."

Robinson made his debut in his Stroud vest at the Alsager Five-Miles. He finished second in a time of 23 minutes and 53 seconds.

He said: "It was a solid, decent run but not earth-shattering. By the fourth mile I could feel the two-and-a half hour run I had done in my legs the week before."

Robinson now turns his focus towards the Commonwealth Games marathon in Melbourne on Sunday, March 19, where he will take with him the experience of competing at the Olympics and World Championships.

He revealed:"I will be leaving on February 26 so that will give me three weeks to acclimatise."

The conception that Robinson is a wealthy man is far from the truth.

He added: " I couldn't perform to the level that I do if it wasn't for the backing and support I receive from a number of people."

Robinson has received help to pursue his burgeoning career through Stroud and District Athletics Club, Griffith Marshall Chartered Accountants of Gloucester, Lansdown Clinic, Clifton Estates Limited, Fitness Mill and Mark Williams.