ALTRINCHAM Grammar School for Girls student Victoria Barlow had a remarkable year of achievements in pole vaulting.

The 15-year-old, who only took up the sport two years ago, has gone on to be ranked second in the under-17s' women's pole vault and represented England last year at her first international event at Ashford Stadium in Kent.

She trains with Matthew Cullen, a British Athletics Event Group coach and founder of Manchester Pole Vault, and is based from Sports City, and associated with Sale Harriers.

She originally joined Sale Harriers for sprint training in 2014, and was referred to try out pole vault due to her sports history and all-round ability.

In her first year, in the u15s' women’s competition she jumped into the UK top 10.

Victoria has competed at English Schools, Northern Championships, National Championships and YDL National Championships (Youth Development League).

She would like to be selected for the World Junior Championships in the next three years and also continue to represent England and the North West in the UK.

Victoria won silver at the 2016 School Games at Loughborough University and said: "I have always brought a friendly open mind to competition and I hope to carry this attitude further with pole vault and would be delighted to represent my country in future events."

She took part in many competitions last year and won gold at the England Athletics National Championships, Northern Championships, North of England League and Youth Development League.

She also scooped silver at the English Schools' National Championships in Gateshead and the Schools' International event at Ashford.