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Champion runner in court over 'attempted murder' of ex-England rugby player

A champion runner accused of attempting to murder a former England rugby player at Alexandra Stadium has appeared in court.

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Lauren Jeska is charged with the attempted murder of 51-year-old Ralph Knibbs, who is now head of human resources and welfare at UK Athletics.

Jeska is also accused of unlawfully and maliciously wounding, with intent to inflict grievous bodily harm, two other men - Tim Begley and Kevin Taylor - on March 22.

She is further charged with being in possession of three bladed articles – a 12cm kitchen knife, 13cm kitchen knife and a bread knife.

Jeska, 41, is said to have stabbed the men in an attack in an office at the stadium near Great Barr.

Mr Knibbs played for Bristol Rugby and England under-23s in the 1980s.

Former English fell running champion Jeska, of Wesley Terrace, Machynlleth, Powys, appeared at Birmingham Crown Court via videolink today and spoke only to confirm her name.

A provisional trial date was fixed for September 22.

She is due to appear next at the same court on June 16 for a plea and trial preparation hearing.

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