A POCKLINGTON School pupil maintained her positions as the UK's number one high jumper at her age category after picking up a gold medal at the Northern Indoor Championships.

Emily Marshall emerged victorious at the England Institute for Sport (EIS) in the Sheffield to keep her top-spot ranking at under-15s level.

The result saw Marshall build on her personal best display at an open meet in Manchester and ensured a bright start on her first appearance in the Nationals.

She said: “I’ve been doing high jump for six years and I’m part of Kingston Upon Hull Athletics Club.

"Last year I changed coaches and began training twice a week with Ian Hill at EIS in Sheffield.

"Since training with Ian I have improved by 23cm. I am currently ranked first in the UK for high jump in the U15 age group with my PB of 1.68.

"My goal for the indoor season was to clear 160 so jumping 168 a few weeks ago was a big highlight.

“My goal for the outdoor season is 174cm. In April, I’m going with my coach to train in Spain for 10 days along with five other athletes to get ready for the outdoor season.”

David Byas, director of sport at Pocklington School, commented: "As a community we are delighted with the success that Emily has achieved and it is testament to the hard work and dedication that she has shown in this field.

"We all wish her well in achieving her goal of 174cm through the outdoor season"

Coach Ian Hill added: "I have been coaching high jump for many years and have coached athletes through to international level.

"Though Emily is still young and developing she can put together a series of jumps which make people sit up and take notice.

"It is exciting for me to think what the future may hold for Emily."