A TEENAGE girl who plays cricket for the same club Paul Collingwood started at is hoping to follow in his footsteps by playing for England.

Courtney Coulson, 14, who plays for Shotley Bridge Cricket Club, near Consett, in County Durham, has been selected to take part in the England under 15 training programme.

If successful, following three selection sessions in the New Year, the all rounder will win a place in the England under 19 squad.

Courtney, who attends North Durham Academy, and lives in Annfield Plain, near Stanley, said: “I just love everything about the sport. I was jumping around the room when I found out I had been picked.”

As well as playing for various sides at Shotley Bridge, Courtney also plays for Durham Cricket Board and is hoping to go to Dubai in February to take part in the Durham Women’s Under 19 Arch Trophy.

She and her team mates have to raise £1,500 each and are doing sponsored walks, bag packing and car washing as well as looking for commercial backing and sponsorship.

Anyone who can help is asked to contact her mother, Diane Brunton, on 0751-360-0014.