Greg Rutherford smashes British long-jump record

The Olympic champion broke the record in San Diego

Greg Rutherford (GETTY IMAGES)

Greg Rutherford has set a new British long jump record of 8.51 metres in Chula Vista, San Diego.

The Olympic champion, who had equalled Chris Tomlinson's record at 8.35m in May 2012 ahead of the London Games, smashed that with a personal best leap on Thursday.

Following the new record, Rutherford said on Twitter: "I'm shaking. I can't believe how amazing today has been. Absolutely buzzing £8.51.

"Wow my body is feeling it now. Thanks for all the amazing messages. I've waited a long time for this. More to come £851 British Record.

"It's 10pm in San Diego and 6am in the UK. If you're just waking up I am now the British Record holder after jumping 8.51 today in San Diego."

Rutherford won gold at the 2012 Olympics with a winning distance of 8.31m.

PA