URGENT DISCUSSIONS OVER ALLEGATIONS

UK Sport is in “urgent discussions” with UK Athletics over allegations made about the husband of its incoming chief executive Zara Hyde Peters.

A newspaper report alleged Hyde Peters’ husband, Mike Peters, was allowed to continue as a coach at Coventry Godiva Harriers despite being banned from teaching for an “inappropriate relationship” with a 15-year-old schoolgirl.

Hyde Peters, due to start her role with UK Athletics on December 1, was vice-chair of Coventry Godiva Harriers at the time.

A UK Sport spokesperson said: “We were not previously aware of any of the issues reported this morning in relation to Mike Peters. Clearly the accusations laid out are extremely serious and we are in urgent discussions with UK Athletics to seek all the facts relating to this issue.

“We treat safeguarding matters with the utmost importance and all our investments into national governing bodies are contingent on a sport meeting standards set out by the Child Protection in Sport Unit (CPSU) and the Ann Craft Trust (in relation to Adults at Risk).

“The integrity of the high performance system is paramount and so we will quickly, but thoroughly, establish the facts of this case before deciding on the appropriate response.”

UK Athletics said it stood by Hyde Peters’ appointment, but was investigating “the issues raised”.

“I fully support Zara’s appointment as CEO and feel she will do an excellent job,” said UK Athletics chairman Chris Clark.

“There can be no compromise, however, on matters relating to welfare and safeguarding and it’s important we clarify the facts and processes undertaken, as well as the decisions made in relation to the issues raised.”