Young Benfleet sprint star Katie Flaherty is celebrating her first ever call-up to the Great Britain athletics squad.

The 15-year-old Basildon AC athlete will run in the 200m for the Britain and Ireland team at the European Youth Olympics in Spain on July 23-27.

The competition features the top under-18 athletes from around Europe and the selection is Katie's reward for some tremendous performances this season.

The Southend High for Girls pupil set a blistering 200m personal best of 24.8 seconds when winning the South of England title in May.

She has also achieved what is thought to be the unique feat of holding three local council junior sports personality of the year awards - from Basildon, Castle Point and Southend - at one time.

Katie, who also captains the Essex netball team, is delighted with the call-up - her biggest honour yet in a blossoming career.

She has represented England before, but the event in Spain will be her first appearance for the British squad.

Proud mum Anne Flaherty said: "She's very excited. She was at a friend's house when I told her on the phone and she couldn't stop screaming with joy.

"It's going to be a wonderful experience for her, especially if she could go out there and make the final."

UK Athletics youth selector Brian Hall added: "Only the top athletes in the age group get selected and this is a real chance for Katie to make her mark on the international stage."

Katie, also a talented long-jumper, has a further chance to make headlines this weekend when she competes for Southend High for Girls in the Sky Sports English Schools Track and Field Cup at Basildon's Gloucester Park.

The following weekend, she pursues individual glory at the English Schools Track and Field Championships in Exeter.

Olympic call - for Katie Flaherty

Picture: LUAN MARSHALL

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