WILTSHIRE competitors Laura Halford and Stephani Sherlock made solid starts to the European Championships in Budapest today.

The duo, coached by Deb Hows at the Esprit club in Swindon, took part in the first two disciplines of the all-around competition in Hungary this evening.

Cricklade's Halford, 21, lay in 27th position at the end of the opening day, with Sherlock further down the field in 41st in the all-around standings.

Both British girls competed in the hoop and ball disciplines, with Halford claiming 31st position in the hoop section and 20 year old Sherlock 49th.

2014 silver and bronze Commonwealth Games medallist Halford improved in the ball class, coming in 29th, while Sherlock also picked up places to 43rd.

The duo are due to contest the ribbon and clubs disciplines tomorrow.