Herne Hill Harriers’ Blade Ashby was in sublime form at the South of England Indoor Athletics Championships last weekend as he picked up a gold medal in U20 men’s 60m hurdles, writes Sarwar Khan.

The multi-event star cruised through the heats to win the final in 8.07 seconds, beating Croydon Harriers' Joe Yarde by less than two tenths of a second.

It is a promising start for the 18-year-old who will be a big part of the Harriers newly promoted British Athletics team in Division One this summer.

In the U15 boys’ 800m race, Paul Burgess and Sam Wattles picked up silver and bronze medals respectively, while Max Ferrari won silver in the U15 boys’ 1,500m.

The three talented athletes have featured heavily in the Harriers’ team wins in the cross country fixtures this season and are in contention for the league title for their respective age groups.

Elsewhere, newcomer Francesca Reid Lloyd surprised her peers and coach after winning a bronze medal in the U15 girls’ 1500m.

The athlete, who has had little racing experience, worked her way through the field from last place to snatch third in the closing stages in a personal best time of five minutes, 3.08 seconds.

"Francesca is a definite star in the making," said her coach, James McDonald.

"She only started with us after attending the Harriers’ open meeting at Tooting Bec Track in the summer and has been really dedicated to her training.

"Her attitude and commitment to running will take her far."

In other news, the Harriers' senior women’s team claimed second team prize in the Benfleet 15 mile cross country race on Sunday.

Sue Swaine (7th), Sam Whiting (10th) and Debbie Jackson (16th) packed well out of a field of 500 runners.