WORCESTER'S Abby Kelly is on course for an appearance at the World Lifesaving Championships in Florida next year.

The 25-year-old has been picked for the national trials at Crystal Palace in December following her achievements at the European Championships in Palma, Majorca.

The Great Britain team finished eighth out of 12 countries, with Abby finishing 13th in the 50m manikin rescue, involving a 25m swim and 25m manikin tow, and 12th in the combined rescue medley, involving a 50m swim, a 15m underwater swim to collect a manikin followed by a 35m manikin tow.

She also got to the semi-finals in the 90m beach sprint, as well as competing in the ski race and Iron Man race.

Abby, a member of South Worcester Lifesaving Club, has received a £210 grant towards her costs of competing in Majorca from Sport Worcester, which she received from the Mayor of Worcester, Coun David Clark, in a ceremony at the Guildhall.

Also receiving grants were Worcester Triathlon club members Jonathan Stedman (£210 towards the cost of race entries and travel), Les Bailey (£100 for competing in the World Duathlon Championships), Ros Townsend-Hope and Gail Flanaghan (both £100 for competing in the World Triathlon Age Group Championships).

Worcester's St Joseph's Primary School also received £100 towards the cost of sports equipment.