A YOUNG North-East athlete has been shortlisted for a programme to identify future world champions.

Kate Avery is one of 15 girls from across the country who will try out for On Camp with Kelly - Dame Kelly Holmes' mentoring scheme.

Kate, 16, from Newton Aycliffe, County Durham, was chosen by the double Olympic champion to attend a selection day at the UK Athletics High Performance Centre, Birmingham, later this month.

If successful, Kate will then attend the camp at Loughborough University in spring, where she will receive training and guidance from experts, including Dame Kelly.

Dame Kelly said: "All the girls invited to the selection day are very talented young athletes, as their performances last year show.

"I will be looking for evidence that they have a real desire to achieve and the determination to become a world- class international athlete.

"If the athletes demonstrate those qualities, they will be invited to become part of On Camp with Kelly."

Last year, Kate won silver medals in the intermediate 1500m at the English Schools Championships and in the 3000m at the UK School Games. She also took the bronze medal in the 3000m at the England Athletics Under 17 Championships.

On Saturday, she came first in the Durham Schools girls' 4,000m cross country.

Kate, who trains with Shildon Running and Athletics Club, said: "I have met Dame Kelly before, but that was just when she was signing autographs and having her picture taken, so it will good to meet her properly.