Coventry Godiva Joanne Wise jumped to a gold medal in the Commonwealth Games long jump final today.

The injury-plagued former Stratford Grammar School girl recorded a personal outdoor best of 6.63 metres to record the biggest win of her career.

It is an amazing triumph for 27-year-old Wise who has had knee trouble throughout her career. She had surgery for knee problems in 1993 and 1995 and began training again in 1996 after three years out of competition.

She said:

"I was just looking to get into the team for the Games, so I am a bit overwhelmed by the victory.

"I thought I could get a gold – but I didn’t think it would be a gold. I am really, really chuffed."