JACKIE Rockliffe has been selected to represent England at the Irish and British Masters Cross Country International in Swansea next month, writes KEVIN FAHEY.

The Trowbridge athlete received the news just days after winning the Wiltshire county half marathon title at Salisbury when she clocked a personal best time of 83mins 21secs.

“It is great news and I am delighted,” said Rockliffe.

“It is my second England vest, having won my first two years ago. Since then, I have been injured on and off so it is brilliant to finally get back to my best form again.”

Steve Williams, who is her coach at Avon Valley Runners, said Rockliffe had worked really hard to overcome her injury problems to regain her form and said selection was a morale-boosting reward for her.

“Jackie has had her problems but she is a tough athlete,” said Williams.

“She applies herself well and has a great intelligence and experience.She is one of the best racers I have coached because she seems to have this ability to get the best out of herself.

“No matter how fit she is Jackie will extract the best out of herself and that is a great quality.”

Two years ago Rockliffe marked her international debut by finishing 27th overall and fourth in her over 45s age category at the Irish & British Masters event in Glasgow.

Next month’s event is being held in Swansea and while two years older Rockliffe’s form is such that a place on the podium is within her capability.

Rockliffe said: “After all the injury problems I have suffered I never thought I would win another England vest so this is fantastic news."