Controller of TV Sport Mike Miller discusses the contract

The announcement comes within two weeks of Channel 4 prising cricket rights away from the corporation, prompting criticism about its commitment to sport.

But on Monday the BBC announced it had concluded a major contract with UK Athletics 98, the new governing body for the sport, for exclusive year-round coverage on radio and TV.

Linford Christie: "Athletics is the most important sport in the country"

It covers both indoor and outdoor events from 1999 to 2004, including British trials for the Olympic Games, World and European Championships, and the British Grand Prix.

Alan Yentob: "The BBc is committed to sport"

Director of television for the BBC, Alan Yentob, said: "Securing these important rights for United Kingdom athletics completes a circle of coverage for the BBC which is already heavily committed to world athletics.

"This is a real relationship and it marks a long term commitment to a sport which has broad appeal across age, gender and culture.

"We will be building on our experience which has brought such big viewing figures in the recent past - something Channel 4 was unable to offer."

David Moorcroft: "Athletics will benefit"

Chief executive of UK Athletics 98, David Moorcroft, said: "The rights fee will help us to support the general work of the governing body. That funding will complement other forms of funding like the National Lottery.

"It makes our building plans and the whole process much easier now.