THERE was a golden hat-trick for bionic Stevenage man Brad Plummer. Brad, a member of Garden City Runners, is now hoping for selection for the UK s world disability championships team after a hat-trick of gold medals in the British Open contest. The 43-ye

THERE was a golden hat-trick for bionic Stevenage man Brad Plummer.

Brad, a member of Garden City Runners, is now hoping for selection for the UK's world disability championships team after a hat-trick of gold medals in the British Open contest.

The 43-year-old, whose right knee is held together by pins after a road accident eight years ago, took top place in all the events he entered.

Scorching and windy weather at the Commonwealth Games stadium in Manchester could not prevent him winning top honours in his disability class in the 400m (1:10), 800m (2:30) and 5000m (18:56).

Brad said: "It was an amazing day.

"Not only was I wilting in the heat but my knee was playing up after the two shorter events.

"I knew it was down to my mental determination and attitude if I was to perform in the 5000m so I was delighted with a third gold.

"The whole event is truly inspirational. There is a huge range of disabilities and such a wealth of determination and guts shown by everyone there who competed."

His results, and his 3-13 time for the London Marathon, mark a return to top-level form for the former 10-mile champion, now a coach for local athletes.

He added: "My confidence is back where the track is concerned and I'm excited about the prospect of being selected for the world championships in Holland later this year.