CHRIS TOMLINSON insists he and his fellow athletes would welcome drugs cheat Dwain Chambers back into the British Olympic team.

Long jumper Tomlinson, who has competed in two Olympic Games, hopes Chambers gets the opportunity to run in the 100 metres at London 2012.

The chances of Chambers competing improved when WADA (World Anti-Doping Authority) decreed recently that the British Olympic Association’s lifetime Olympic ban on drugs cheats violated the global anti-doping code.

The BOA intend to defend their policy at the Court of Arbitration for Sport, but if they lose then Chambers – along with other drugs cheats such as cyclist David Millar and shot putter Carl Myerscough – could appear in their home Olympics.

While Tomlinson agrees with harsh drug penalties, he is sympathetic towards Chambers.

Tomlinson said: “I think the BOA having a lifetime ban is great. I don’t think two years is sufficient. You need a strong deterrent.

“However, if I was Dwain Chambers I would feel disappointed. I’d feel miffed off because you’ve got American athletes and athletes from other countries that have had the same bans and will be competing in London next year.

“Ultimately, what the athletes want is one rule for all. We want a tough stance on drugs. I’m getting beaten by athletes who have taken drugs and it is simply not fair.”

However, a decision in favour of Chambers would be popular among British athletes, according to Tomlinson.

He said: “Dwain gets on well with everyone. He is a great character, one of the friendliest people in the team. He’ll always give you hints and tips and great advice.

“He’s made mistakes but I’m sure he wouldn’t make those mistakes again. I’ve got a lot more time for Dwain than I have for many other athletes.”