Heather Fell, Olympic modern pentathlete silver medalist, writes about her life 'on and off' the track.

THE sun was shining in Rome but unfortunately my performance at the World Champion-ships was not. However two of my teammates Mhairi Spence and Samantha Murray had the results of their lives, winning an individual gold and bronze respectively. It makes me so proud to be part of the Great Britain squad in a sport that we really do dominate. As a result of our strength and depth I didn't return home empty handed; the accumulation of our points won us a team gold.

When in Rome...yes I luckily had some time either side of the competition to see a few sights and sample some wonderful Italian culture - oh and did I mention the sunshine? Many of our competitions seem to be in Eastern Europe and less glamorous locations but in my career I've been lucky enough to compete in Rome on three occasions. Previously I've visited the Vatican, walked around the Coliseum and completed most of the tourist trail although I've never faced the 551 steps to the top of St Peter's Church, but it is certainly worth the effort for you are rewarded with a magnificent view of the historic and beautiful city. Another bonus has to be the calories you burn off on the way — despite eating one or two Italian gelato.

I am looking forward to heading home this weekend. It is exciting for Devon to be welcoming the Olympic torch on its route through our county, even if it is bypassing Tavistock. However we are lucky to have a brilliant charity event happening in our town on Sunday, a five-a-side football competition the Son Rise cup. I might not be donning my football boots but will certainly be there to support the autism charity.