The man who won silver in Los Angeles in 1984 has seen British javelin throwing slip out of the headlines.

"We no longer have top names like Steve Backley, Mick Hill or Kelly Morgan," he told BBC Radio Shropshire.

"So what we're doing is trying to use the excitement of this year's Games to generate kids' interest ahead of 2012."

Telford-based Ottley feels the unique excitement the Olympics bring can help draw youngsters back into his sporting discipline.

"As the Beijing Games get closer, we're working hard to get youngsters involved in the javelin, and perhaps unearth talent for Britain in 2012."

Ottley competed in three Olympics and added: "I first thought about competing when I was about 12 and when I was eventually selected it surpassed any of my expectations.

"There was a special feeling about the Olympics and I still get that buzz today."