Tara Simpson-Sullivan was England’s golden girl as she won the hammer at an international event in Dublin.

She was one of three Cumbrians competing in Ireland at the Schools International Athletic Board meeting.

Simpson-Sullivan was more than four metres clear of her nearest challenger, while Oliver Dustin finished second in the 800m and Megan Busby competed in the long jump.

The trio had all qualified for the event, and the chance to represent England, after the English Schools Athletics national championships earlier this month in Birmingham.

Simpson-Sullivan’s mother Tracy said: “She is UK number one at the moment and currently ranked 25th in Europe in her age category. The majority of the people above her are actually older, as well.”

The 16-year-old, from Lowther, near Penrith, is currently training in Wigan and competes for Wigan and District Harriers and Athletic Club.

The Ullswater Community College student is training once a week, but Tracy added: “Ideally, we would like her to train twice a week.

“We have had books out in the back of the car. It can be up to a two-hour journey down so she is also catching up on sleep whenever there is time.

“Tara competes for Wigan Harriers now. She is actually competing in the Northern League against seniors.”

Simpson-Sullivan has also recently switched coach to team up with Robert Halliwell.

“He is absolutely amazing with her. He has changed a few things. She is now a more consistent thrower,” Tracy said.

“In the past, it was nerve-wracking in terms of how many throws were legal throws. That is better now. She has worked with him for about a year.”

Having won the 2016 School Games, the teen has again been asked to compete at the School Games on September 1 at Loughborough – this time representing the North of England.

But before that this weekend, she will be throwing in Whitehaven.