A BOLTON triathlete hopes to put her injury worries behind her and make a big impression with the England Talent squad next year.

Leah Peploe has just signed her national training contract is currently in training for next season with a number of events in the next couple of weeks including two on one day.

The 17-year-old had been keeping her fingers-crossed she had convinced the national selectors of her ability in a few races despite a few problems last season

She said: "I am really pleased to get in the England team because I had a bad season with injuries and did not think I would make it.

"This is going to be a big year because it is my last one in the junior ranks and I need to be involved in all of the big races.

"I also will be heading away to Portugal between December 14 and 21 and then there is going to be another one in August but the details of that have not been announced.

"I am excited about going to the launch event in November."

It is the off-season for the triathletes but the Bolton Metro squad member is busy during the winter.

She said: "I just want to stay injury-free this year so I have the best chance of picking up good results.

"My training started in September and I had set the best few months training in a few years.

"I am doing it two or three times a day and also at college.

"This is the time of year when you can improve your swimming as well as running.

"There is a Red Rose Cross Country event in the morning of November 8 in Rossendale and then there is a swimming competition in Liverpool at night.

"It gives you enough chance to develop individually."

Peploe picked up the 'Rising Star' gong at the Bolton Sport and Active Living Awards.

She said: "I did not expect to win it.

"My dad told me that I would not get it but he was joking.

"It has made me really proud and it will really spur me on for next year."

Leah admitted she is grateful to her sponsors Summit Physio, Blue70, Kids of Bolton and the Endurance store for their support.