Andrew Smith, of Benton Park School in Rawdon, qualified for the finals of the English Schools Track and Field Championships, despite being in the year below most of his rivals.

Having won through Leeds Schools and West Yorkshire trials, the 16-year-old from Calverley (pictured) came sixth in the first-round 800-metre heat at the Alexander Stadium in Birmingham.

His time of 1min 55:60secs was not enough to see him progress but he said: “The experience has been brilliant. I’m hoping to make the selection again next year as I have another year in the same age group.

“By that point I will be that little bit faster and hopefully I can qualify for a place in the final and maybe even bring home a medal.”

Smith’s PE teacher Mark Ross said: “Andy is a dedicated young man and I have no doubt that he will progress further in next year’s championships as he is currently competing against athletes who are mostly a year older than himself.

“We’re really pleased for him and he should be justifiably proud of his efforts and achievement.”