Colin Jackson says plans to erase sport's world records are "ridiculous"

Welshman Colin Jackson has said proposals to erase all world and European records set before 2005 are "ridiculous" and would "rob memories" from fans.

The proposals are part of controversial plans to fight doping in sport.

European Athletics said overhauling the record lists will eliminate any doping doubts surrounding outstanding performances.

The IAAF has only stored blood and urine samples since 2005 and said all records before then would fail to meet its new three-point criteria for new standards.

Women's world marathon record holder Paula Radcliffe and men's triple jump world record holder Jonathan Edwards have also both condemned the move that would see theirs and others' historic achievements wiped out.

Speaking to 5 Live, Jackson said achieving medals was the "primary objective".

Colin Jackson, seen competing in 1997, set his indoor 60m record in 1994 Credit: PA

Cardiff-born Jackson's indoor 60m hurdles world record of 7.30 seconds, set in 1994 is amongst those records at risk.

British Athletics believes it will no longer be recognised as official if the new proposals are brought into force.

Others include:

  • Steve Cram's European one mile run of 3 minutes and 46.32 seconds (1985) and European 2,000m run of 4 minutes and 51.39 seconds (1985)

Steve Cram, seen in 1985, stands to lose two European records Credit: PA

  • Jonathan Edwards' triple jump world record of 18.29m (1995)

Jonathan Edwards, seen on his way to a never-bettered distance of 18.29m in 1995. Credit: PA

  • Paula Radcliffe's women's marathon world record of 2 hours 15 minutes and 25 seconds in a mixed race (2003).

Paula Radcliffe ran the fastest marathon time by a woman in London in 2003 Credit: PA

IAAF president Lord Coe endorsed the move as a "step in the right direction" as the sport fights for "credibility" over doping testing.