TOM Lancashire has teed up a British medal showdown after producing a sensational performance in Barcelona last night to reach the European Championship 1500m final.

The 25-year-old from Bromley Cross finished third in the second semi-final in 3mins 41.68secs behind the Spanish duo of Reyes Estevez and Arturo Casado. Lancashire followed fellow Brits Andy Baddeley and Colin McCourt, who finished first and fourth respectively in the first semi, into the 12-man final.

The Bolton Harrier was only a late confirmation for the Euros but he more than repaid the selectors’ faith, taking charge in the last couple of laps before easing up in the back-straight.

“I don’t like slowing down over the line like that – you have to keep looking over your shoulder and the two Spanish guys were having a bit of a duel so I thought I’d let them have it,” he said. “I want to take care of business now. I was quite pleased that when I hit the front I managed to break up the pack a bit and I was cruising towards the end.

“I leave the race feeling there is a lot more there to come from me so it’s good and I’m positive going into the final now.”

Lancashire is not unused to running at major championships, having competed at the 2008 Beijing Olympics and the 2009 Berlin World Championships. And while Baddeley, who was the third fastest qualifier, will undoubtedly start as the favourite among the Brits – Lancashire is determined to call on his major championship experience and has no intention of wasting his big opportunity to sparkle on the international stage.

“I’ve got a good idea what I need to do to try to win it and that’s what I’ll be planning to do.” he added. “It’s great that there are three Brits in the final – I think we all consider ourselves medal contenders. Myself and Andy Baddeley are the two quickest this year but I think Colin showed just how strong he can finish – it should be good.”

* Aviva’s support, both at home and abroad, is helping the team prepare to compete at their best. Watch the Aviva GB & NI Team live in action at the Aviva London Grand Prix. For more details visit aviva.co.uk/athletics