RECORD-BREAKING athlete Darren Scott is on top of the world after clinching gold in the 200 metres M45 event at the World Masters’ Championships in Lyon, France.

The fitness instructor at The Heath Leisure Suite in Runcorn recorded a winning time of 22.72 maintaining his incredible nine-year unbeaten record in the event.

Although outside of his world record, Darren's time was enough to see off runner up and fellow Briton Jason Carty and American sprinter Lee Bridges who finished third.

Scott said: “It’s been a brilliant year to win the European Masters’ Indoor title, break the world record and now to win gold at the World Outdoor Championships.

“And if that wasn’t enough I also got married this year to my partner Rebecca who has been a fantastic support – I don’t think I can top a year like this!”

Unfortunately Scott could not add another gold medal as he just missed out in the M45 100 metres final when he took bronze in a three-way photo finish.

“The 100 metres was a fantastic race and a really close finish,” Scott said. “None of us knew who had won when we crossed the line and we had to wait for the result to be shown on the big screen in the stadium.”

Scott, who briefly retired after winning the M40 200 metre title at the World Outdoor Championships in 2011, plans to continue competing with next year’s European Master’s Indoor Championships in Italy in his sights.

However he admitted a defence of his world title seems unlikely unless he gains sponsorship as the next championships are being staged in Perth, Australia in 2016.

John Lewis, owner and operator of The Heath Business and Technical Park, said: “The Master’s events he has competed in since 2006 is an amazing testament to his talent and determination.

“We are really lucky to have such an inspirational instructor at The Heath and Leisure Suite.”

Anyone wishing to sponsor Scott should contact him on 07903971307.