Sports minister Richard Caborn today welcomed Paula Radcliffe's decision to run in tonight's 10,000 metres and insisted "the whole nation is behind her".

Radcliffe this morning decided to compete after four days of deliberation following her shock withdrawal from the marathon.

Caborn told the ITV News Channel: "I have no doubt that the whole of the nation are going to be behind her tonight when she steps out into the stadium to achieve what has been a life-time ambition for her."

He added: "It's great news. I will be cheering and it will be a fantastic night here in the stadium tonight.

"I have just been talking to the doctors in the camp who have been examining Paula. They say there is no medical reason why she should not run.

"She wants to get a medal, therefore her decision has been made." Caborn praised the Bedford runner's spirit and determination.

"Credit is due to Paula. She is a very strong lady both physically and in mind. I hope she is going to do it tonight.

"I have no doubt that she would not have made the decision unless she is 100% sure that she can do it. If she had had any doubts she would not entered the race tonight.

"Here in the camp there is 101% support for Paula." Radcliffe has been mulling over whether to enter the 10,000m since her marathon disappointment on Sunday, when she withdrew from the race four miles from the finish.

She is the fastest woman in the world this year over the 10,000m distance, by a massive 26 seconds, but there are fears over whether Radcliffe will be too physically or mentally fatigued to race again.

However her decision, which Radcliffe has waited almost until the very last moment to announce, suggests that the marathon world record holder feels confident about her chances over the shorter distance.

The 30-year-old finished fourth over 10,000m at the Sydney Olympics four years ago, having led for much of the race before being outpaced on the final lap.

She was a silver medallist at the 1999 World Championships, but again finished fourth at the 2001 edition.

Her lone 10,000m gold medal came at the European Championships of 2002.