Sanderson 54, who married British judo chief Densign White last year, told me: "I am very sad to leave the Academy at this crucial stage of preparation with the Games with less than 500 days to the start."

But she declines further comment on her unexpected departure.

However it is believed there have been differences with funding body Newham Council over the future of the highly successful academy which has helped develop some 70 potential Olympians and Paralympians for 2012.

She was also unhappy at not being allowed to exercise her vote as a member of the Olympic Legacy Company when the Olympic Stadium issue was being decided.

Doubtless her unexpected availablity will be of interest to Games organisers.

Up to now she has had a relatively low-key association with 2012's preparations.

A spokesman from Newham Council told insidethegames: "Tessa has done a fantastic job delivering the Newham Sports Academy programme over the last four years.

"It's work is the result of the highest investment by any local authority in supporting young sporting talent.

"The Council sees a future role for Tessa's involvement and we are working with her about options for the best way forward.

"There will be no dilution in our efforts to help  young people in the run up to 2012 and beyond, however, Government funding cuts mean that the Council is reviewing the ways in which it delivers services.

"The intention behind the Academy was always that the council would move from a position of direct delivery to asking our partners to provide proposals for supporting the Academy's aims.

"We look forward to proceeding on that basis as we remain committed to supporting our talented youngsters."

In the meantime, Sanderson is again organising the·popular Newham Classic 10km and can expect a bumper turn-out for her farewell on April 10.

For more details of the event click here.


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January 2011: Tessa Sanderson threatens lawsuit over Olympic Stadium vote exclusion
January 2011: Olympic champion excluded from London 2012 Stadium decision
August 2010: Tessa Sanderson - Newham Sports Academy is smiles better
November 2009: Alan Hubbard - How Tessa Sanderson is digging up nuggets in the East End