FOR Chloe Hayward, selection to make her debut for Wiltshire in the English Schools’ Cross Country Championships on Saturday already confirms that this winter has been a huge success, writes KEVIN FAHEY.

The 15-year-old Highworth Warneford School student, who is a member of Swindon Harriers, is one of the most improved runners in the area and her selection to take part in one of the biggest events on the cross-country calendar is thoroughly deserved - even if it took the teenager by surprise.

“I could not believe it when I heard I had been selected,” said Hayward.

“My goal this season was to get to the South West Schools’ Championships, so to make the English Championships was totally unexpected.

“I am so excited about going to Nottingham and at the same time, also a bit nervous.”

Her coach Bryan Clinton will tell her that some nerves will be a good thing as she lines up with around 300 other top young athletes in the inter girls’ age group at Woolaton Park.

“Chloe has never run in such a big field before but I have told her to go and enjoy herself,” said Clinton.

“She has trained really well this winter and made a bit of a breakthrough, winning a place in the Wiltshire team.”

Other local runners in the team include Malmesbury School’s Lucy Buffham (inters) and Megan Poole of Isambard Community School, who will be making her debut in the junior girls’ age group. Kingsdown School’s Joe Castle will contest the inter boys’ race.

As for top-20 potential, Sheldon School’s Gemma Shepherd and Rory Howorth, of St Augustines, are the county’s best hopes.