The move gives the French group control of a raft of businesses from radar and sonar, to internet services, as well as Racal's 22% stake in the UK's National Lottery operator Camelot.

BBC: Thomson-CSF seals Racal deal

News of Sotherton's reluctant decision to bow out of the gruelling multi-discipline challenge emerged on Monday when UK Athletics announced its list of National Lottery-funded athletes for next season.

BBC: Sotherton eyes 400m after injuries end heptathlon hopes

"However, there would be significant implications for Wales and the other devolved nations if the English Heritage were to be merged with the UK-wide Heritage Lottery Fund and National Heritage Memorial Fund, " said the spokesperson.

BBC: Concern for Welsh heritage over leaked quango axe plan

They will be up against other National Lottery-funded projects from across the UK when voting opens on Tuesday.

BBC: Hampshire groups in National Lottery Awards vote appeal

In the UK, Richard Branson won a libel case against the head of the company running the National Lottery over a bribe he said he was offered.

BBC: click on a month