Fell-runner admits attempted knife murder of British Athletics official

A former fell-running champion has admitted the attempted murder of a British Athletics official and assaults on two other men who stepped in to help him.

Lauren Jeska pleaded guilty to attempting to kill former rugby player Ralph Knibbs, who was stabbed at the Alexander Stadium in Birmingham in March.

Jeska, 41, of Wesley Terrace in Machynlleth, Powys, also admitted two charges of having a knife in a public place, during a video-link appearance at Birmingham Crown Court.

Former Bristol RFC centre Mr Knibbs, the head of human resources and welfare at British Athletics, was in court to hear Jeska enter her pleas from a video conferencing suite at HMP Foston Hall in Derbyshire.

The court heard the injuries of Jeska's other victims - accountant Timothy Begley and finance director Kevan Taylor - were "not of the most serious order".

Judge Philip Parker QC was told that the defendant had been the subject of psychiatric assessment but further reports would be necessary before she is sentenced on November 15.

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