NATHAN Montague has been named in the England team for the Anglo-Celtic Plate 100k Championships in Hull.

It will be the Swindon Harrier’s fourth appearance in the England vest and the 34-year-old teacher from The Parks is as excited about the prospect as when he made his debut.

“I am ecstatic about being picked to run for England again,” said Montague. “As far as I am concerned it is the pinnacle to be selected to represent your country. That is something you dream about when you start out competing.

“For me it is a fantastic feeling and we also have a strong England team so will be looking to win the team title.”

The call-up for the May 21 race has given Montague a big lift after illness and injury disrupted the first few months of 2017.

“I have had a stumbling start to the new year with a pelvis problem and illness issues,” added Montague.

“I probably over-cooked things in training so have had to step back and re-assess my goals the year. The Marathon de Sables (the iconic stage race across the Sahara Desert) next month is still my big goal but I have had to modify my training schedule for that now.

“To be honest that may be a blessing in disguise as I will be going to the event next month feeling refreshed rather than worn out. It is just something you have to deal with as an ultra runner and I am still feeling confident about my preparations and I have big ambitions for the race.

“Things are starting to fall into place again now.”