BRITAIN'S latest sporting heroine, Kelly Holmes, will make a triumphant return to UK athletics with a race in the North-East later this month.

The double Olympic gold medal winner has confirmed she will take part in the Bupa Great North Mile -her first race in the UK since her victories in the 800m and 1500m in Athens.

David Hart, of event organiser Nova International said: "Kelly will arrive in Newcastle for the Great North Run weekend on September 24 and will carry out a full programme of events, where she is very eager to meet the public."

Holmes is keen to regain the Bupa Great North Mile title she lost 12 months ago to Turkey's European champion Surreya Ayhan, having won it twice.

Back in full training after a hectic post-Athens period of celebrations, Holmes said: "I like running in mile road races and I am really looking forward to coming to Newcastle for my first race in this country since the Olympics.

"The support I have had in previous years has been fantastic and I am sure that the turnout will again be massive for what is a great event.

"I am running in Berlin this Sunday and again in Monaco the following weekend, so I will be in shape for the race in Newcastle."