Not just a fine track and field athlete during his career, Akabusi has also been a lifelong basketball player and fan, turning out briefly for the Worthing Bears since his retirement.

Akabusi, who won 400 metres hurdles gold in the 1990 European Championships, was delighted to become the organisation's first patron.

"I first played basketball at school in 1970 and had an immediate affinity with the speed and dexterity of the sport," he said.

"I was not the best shooter but always the most enthusiastic rebounder and defender.

"Once again I'm back playing with teams in my locality.

"Basketball is a friendly, family orientated sport that provides great competition and leisure for all.

"Now well into my 50s I find it an ideal way of keeping in shape and keeping in touch with a younger generation of ballers.

"There are very few sports where a mother or father can compete fairly and squarely on the same court as the children, basketball is one [them].

"I look forward to being involved in the promotion of this wonder past time, leisure pursuit, hobby and sport."

The triple Olympic medallist and British record holder for the 400m hurdles, was also praised by BMBA chairman Bill McInnes.

"As an organisation that is responding to the desire of many who wish to continue playing basketball, in spite of not being as young as they used to be, the prospect of attracting someone with the infectious energy and love of sport that Kriss has, is a great fit!"

BMBA was set up in 1995 and 40 teams from across Britain now participate in the tournament annually.

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