Jo Pavey: Euro gold medallist to miss 2015 World Championships

Jo Pavey won 2014 European gold less than a year after giving birth to her second child

European 10,000m gold medallist Jo Pavey will miss the World Championships in Beijing this August to aid her preparation for the 2016 Rio Olympics.

The 41-year-old, who won gold in Zurich last year, said: "If I were to compete in Beijing and Rio it would mean three summers in a row with lengthy periods focused on championship running.

"I feel this is not a good balance for my kids so I am going to stay at home.

"I am also aware I need to look after myself if I want to qualify for Rio."

Pavey, who also won Commonwealth bronze over 5,000m in 2014, added: "I trained extremely hard during 2014 and I believe if I push as much again this year I will increase the risks of not being at my best for 2016.

"Also, I am aware that conditions in Beijing might be hot, humid and potentially have high pollution levels."

British Athletics' performance director Neil Black said: "We are fully supportive of Jo's wishes not to be considered for selection for the World Championships in Beijing.

"With a young family and the pressures that come with maintaining that professional and personal life balance we look forward to seeing her on the domestic and Diamond League circuit this summer."