A YOUNG athlete has sprinted her way to two medals in Italy.

Layla Bell, 17, from Darlington, earned a silver medal in the 200m and bronze in the 100m for Great Britain at the FISEC world games in Italy last month.

It was the first time she had competed overseas.

She achieved personal bests in both events – running a speedy 12.3s in the 100m and 25.29s in the 200m – competing with countries from around the world.

Miss Bell said: “This competition meant so much to me, not only was it my first international event but collecting two medals was something I didn’t expect.

“The personal bests were a massive bonus and competing with such talented athletes from other countries has made me so determined for more international debuts.”

Setting her sights on more medals in national and international competitions, Miss Bell’s next test is the Scottish Nationals on August 19 and 20.

She said she has had some fantastic support from her family as well as local businesses and is looking for any additional sponsorship to help fund her athletics dream.