BROMSGROVE rider Jessica Varnish sliced a second off her Great Britain record in Belgium in June.

The 14-year-old, competing unofficially at the World Championships because she is too young, took a second off her 500 metres record at the Eddie Merckx stadium to finish in 37.1 seconds.

The Finstall resident also finished fourth in the 200m.

Father James Varnish said: "This was a great result for Jessica. Unfortunately because of her age Jessica could not officially race in the tournament but that didn't stop her performing really well."

Jessica was in good form at the Halesowen Youth Track Series, winning her under-16s race in an impressive time of one minute and 17 seconds.

Mr Varnish said: "Considering the women's indoor record is 1.10mins Jessica is really progressing now. She's competing against riders older than her but she is head and shoulders above them."

The gifted young rider now turns her attention to the National Circuit Racing Championships in Bradford this weekend (July 1 and 2).

"Jessica's stamina will be tested when she races for an hour at the championships. This is another step in Jess's development. With the national coaches always watching it's a chance to impress", added Mr Varnish.