Georgina Harland admits she is finding it difficult coming to terms with the “worst injury” of her career but is determined to stay as positive as she can.

The Modern Pentathlon Olympic bronze medallist saw her hopes of competing in Beijing dashed when she ruptured her calf muscle, competing in the world championships in Budapest.

She said: “I saw the specialist last week and it was decided not to operate as the rupture is too big. I cannot put any weight on the leg for six to eight weeks, and have to wear a fixed boot.

“They will aim to stretch and lift the leg every couple of weeks to a total of 90 degrees, and were quite surprised at the severity of the rupture It’s a very unusual injury, more commonly suffered in hamstrings by sprinters.”

“I am not a particular good patient, but family and friends have been very supportive, sending me lots of parcels containing magazines and chocolate.

"I want to get a laptop so I can keep busy and active, and would like to help the British Olympic Association and the Modern Pentathlon Association in anyway I can.

“It’s the worst injury I have ever had, and have had my moments emotionally, because I am finding the whole thing quite daunting.”