A CHAMPION veteran athlete is hanging up her gym shoes after 11 years helping recovering addicts at Bradford's largest drug treatment charity.

Caroline Marler, 63, has managed the gym at The Bridge Project on Salem Street since 2003, helping hundreds of addicts with the physical side of their recovery.

She is retiring on Friday to spend more time at home with her family, but will still find time to run for Great Britain in World Masters Athletics events.

"I'll be really sorry to leave, and will miss talking to clients and helping them use exercise on their road to recovery," she said.

"A lot of the people here need structure, and the gym gives them a reason to get out of bed and somewhere to come each day.

"They get a lot of confidence and self-esteem through getting healthier and getting into a routine, and it's great to see them supporting each other too."

The Bridge Project works with more than 2,000 people per year, mainly those recovering from heroin and crack cocaine addictions.

John Royle, CEO of the project, said alongside clinical treatment and counselling, improving levels of nutrition and physical activity via gym work was vital for those using the charity's services.

"Recovery is mental, emotional and physical, and the physical side is very important," he said.

"This is a gym with a difference because of the people who use it, so managing it is obviously a very specialist role.

"You need someone who is a first-rate coach, but also able to empathise, support and reassure vulnerable people.

"Caroline has been a huge inspiration to people here and has built a real community.

"She inspires the service users with her own example, and is an incredible motivator who will be sorely missed."

Despite her retirement, Mrs Marler, of Otley, has no plans to end her International Masters career, in which she is currently World Champion at 800m for women aged 60 to 64, having won the title in Brazil last October.

She is also European Champion at 400m and 800m, and plans to defend her World Outdoor and European Indoor titles in 2015.

"My competing in veteran athletics will still be ongoing, and barring any injuries, I'll be taking part in all the major championships, including the World Championships in Poland next year," she said.

"But I don't wear my Great Britain vest in the gym, and there's only one or two of the service users who are aware of what I do."

For more information on the services offered by The Bridge Project, visit www.bridge-bradford.org.uk.