BACK in April, Tracey Morris was an optician who dabbled in athletics.

But now, she is preparing to represent Britain in the Olympics in Athens in August.

She won her place on the team by being the first British woman athlete home in this year's London Marathon.

She scored a time of two hours 33 minutes and 52 seconds.

Tracey, 36, lives in Leeds and has worked as a contact lens optician for Dollond and Aitchison for six years.

She has spent many hours working at the Huddersfield branch of D&A.

On Thursday , she officially re-opened the Huddersfield store after its refurbishment.

It was her last act before taking a break from her job to join the British team in Cyprus at the end of July for 12 weeks of intensive training.

She will take part in the marathon event on August 22.

Tracey said the whole experience has been a shock.

She said: "I did a lot of athletics at school, but then nothing really until six years ago, when I ran a marathon for charity.

"This was only my second marathon and my first serious one that I trained for.

"I didn't know what sort of time I would get.

"It was a total shock to qualify for the Olympics, but a great honour. I'm anxious about it, but excited."

Tracey is full of praise for the way Dollond and Aitchison have helped her pursue her athletic goals.

She said: "I've been overwhelmed by their response. Preparation costs, paid leave, travel and accommodation have all been taken care of. I couldn't have done it without them."