THERE was a time when Anthony Wilson was sick and tired of those early-morning runs and exhausting bike rides.

But, after an eight-year break from competitive action, the Worcestershire duathlete says he is ready to pit himself against the world’s best.

With strong support behind him, Wilson has spent 10 months getting into shape and he will represent Great Britain at the ITU Duathlon World Championships in Aviles, Spain, today.

The 35-year-old does not expect to be among the medal contenders but credits the work of sports scientist Eddie Fletcher, sports masseur James Grant and physiotherapist Devendra Nariane for giving him the chance to compete at the highest level again.

“I feel refreshed and excited, knowing I have got the right support with Eddie, James and Dev,” he said.

“They have been very good and put me back into shape but my fastest times are going to be next year.

“Even though I have qualified this year, you need a good year's training under your belt to get back to your best. But I am hoping to come top 30 if I can.”

Wilson’s appearance on the starting line in Spain ahead of 10-kilometre and 5km runs either side of a 40km bike race will cap off a remarkable return to action.

After starting in the sport in 1999, Wilson, a builder by trade and part-time fireman, soon worked his way up to international standard and went on to compete for Great Britain for six years.

But his career came to an abrupt end in 2008, with Wilson aged 27, after winning bronze at the World Firefighters Games.

“I stopped because I got sick and tired of training every day,” he said.

“I was missing out on time with my friends and I needed a bit of a breather, so I could enjoy myself a bit more and have a few beers.

“But, now I am back into it, I feel like the break has done me good.

“I am in full swing now and much more committed than I was eight years ago.”

Wilson is training five to six days a week and, with the support of Fletcher, confident of making progress over the next few years.

Fletcher has travelled the world demonstrating the Wattbike, an indoor bike that replicates the feel of the road while providing cycling-specific performance data.

“When the Europeans come around next year, I will be hoping to come top 10, maybe even top five,” said Wilson, who races for TriUk.

“I will be working alongside Ed, who is pretty much the ambassador of the Wattbike, which most of the Olympic athletes use, and he is one of the best coaches.

“I am looking to get the best out of the next three years but if I start doing really well, finishing in the top two and winning the national events, then I might be tempted to carry on a bit longer.”

Anyone interested in sponsoring Wilson can email ffwilson@hotmail.co.uk.