By PA Sport Staff

Olympic gold medallist Denise Lewis has launched a scathing attack on the Government over plans to cut down on the funding of British athletes.

Lewis enthralled the nation when winning the heptathlon in Sydney this week, but fears that it will be hard for others to follow in her footsteps unless more money is found to help develop new talent.

"I don't think the Government has got the system right," quotes the Daily Express from an interview with ITV's Tonight with Trevor McDonald programme.

"I was more of an established athlete when the Lottery funding came in but I think it is fair to say that athletes who are here now in Sydney have already received letters saying that their funding is being cut.

"So you have to question whether the Government is serious about supporting British athletes.

"I don't think it is - it doesn't prove it by its actions. British Olympians are coming home with really good medals in the bag, proving that with some support, we can do it.

"So don't just take it away before we get a chance to show our true potential.

"I can look after myself but there are a lot of athletes who do need support. In order to reap the benefits, you have to invest and believe in the cause. If you don't really believe in it, then it's not going to happen."