MIA Chantree is looking to build on an impressive 2016 when she competes in the English Individual Championships next month.

Mia, who lives in Rayleigh, won the RDC Sports Personality of the Year award in November and began 2017 by returning from the South of England Championships with two medals.

The Chelmsford Athletics Club member claimed silver in the long jump, with a jump of 5.31m, while 1.65m in the high jump was enough to secure bronze position.

Mia, 15, enjoyed further success at the competition, which was held at Lee Valley, as she recorded a personal best in the 60m hurdles and made it through to the semi-finals in her first year as an under-17.

Having enjoyed great success since joining Chelmsford in October 2015, the FitzWimarc School student is looking to add more honours to her collection.

Mia’s father, Martin Chantree, said: “She was very proud and delighted to receive the RDC Sports Personality of the Year award.

“Her school put her forward for the award because as well as her success she helps with the Year 7s to encourage them to get into sport.”

Mia, who received letters from Olympians Jessica Ennis-Hill and Katarina Johnson-Thompson congratulating her on her recent performance, is now looking forward to the English Individual Championships.

The athlete is looking to return to Rayleigh with more medals.

“Although now in the under-17s, she is hoping to medal in the high jump and long jump,” added Mia’s father.

“Her main focus is the combined events. When the outdoor season begins she will begin the heptathlon, adding two further events (200m and javelin).

“A top ten ranking would be a superb achievement in both combined events and the high and long jump.”