Speedy siblings Scarlett and Evie Williams produced outstanding performances to reach the Independent Schools Association national cross-country finals.

Scarlett Williams, who is ten, and nine-year-old Evie represented Gosfield School in the regional heats held at Woodlands School in Brentwood.

Scarlett finished tenth out of more than 100 runners to reach the national finals while her younger sister was eighth in her age group, which attracted a similar number of athletes.

A total of 13 youngsters from Gosfield School took part in the two-kilometre races held over a challenging course in blustery conditions.

Jo Williams, mother of Scarlett and Evie, who organises the after-school cross-country club, was thrilled by the achievement of all the runners.

“All the children representing Gosfield gave 100 per cent effort and did the school proud,” she said.

“Scarlett and Evie ran brilliantly to finish in the top ten of their respective races to reach the nationals, which are being held at Princethorpe, College, Coventry on February 27.”

Jo, a former competitive sprinter, from Great Yeldham, says she now hopes their success will spur on everyone involved in the cross-country club.

Along with Scarlett and Evie, those representing Gosfield School were: Harmonie Fry-Oliff, Charlotte Bate, Abigail Bretton, Alesha Mead, Henry Shadrack, Harry Whitwood, Alex Dejong, Subhan Ahmed, Zac Mathews, George Bowers and Sam Hope.

Dr Sarah Welch, head of Gosfield School, said: “We are all immensely proud of our young runners who trained so hard in preparation for the event.

“They deserve every credit for their commitment, enthusiasm and sportsmanship.”