HORWICH RMI Harriers Audrey Foster and Paul Muller helped England to wins in the veteran home international cross-country championships in Ballymena.

Audrey, running in the over 50s team, finished an impressive fourth in her category and was England's third counter while Paul narrowly missed out on winning his category but still came in as second vet 45 and also second English counter.

Audrey, who had only received her call up a few days before the event, was understandably delighted with her run. "This is a dream come true for me. To represent my country has always been my ambition and one that has kept me training hard over the years. I had a great run and perhaps if I hadn't got a stitch half way round, might even have taken an individual medal because I was only 16 seconds off bronze and 20 off silver".

Paul was leading for much of the way but despite suffering a bad patch in the middle of the men's six one-mile laps he still finished second in a time of 33.21 and 13th overall.

" I have to be satisfied with my performance after a few weeks of feeling under the weather and one or two niggles. It was a great honour to have represented England in these championships and like Audrey I hope to compete again next year and maybe go one better".

Audrey and Paul certainly did themselves, club and country proud. Knowing what talented and determined athletes they both are there is every chance this Harrier pair will be making their mark on the international stage again very soon. For these two it is definitely a case of watch this space.