A local student who has swapped tap shoes for trainers is making waves as a runner at competition level.

Maizie Whitbread has come home from the East Midlands Sports Hall Athletics Final victorious, having only been running for one season.

The East Midlands Sports Hall Athletics Final took place earlier this month, and saw athletes from clubs across Derby, Lincoln, Leicestershire and Rutland, Nottinghamshire and Northamptonshire competing at a range of events.

The young competitors had "great fun" at the event, and saw some impressive results.

Maizie Whitbread, aged 13, goes to Catmose School and runs at Corby Athletics Club, represented Northamptonshire.

Maizie in action at the International Dance Federation Championships. Image credit: Vidmantas.

Having competed for England in the International Dance Federation Championships in Lithuania last year, Maizie has taken a break from dance and is, instead, dipping her toe into the world of athletics - and she has certainly put her best foot forward.

She won her first heat and went on to the final with the fastest time. She then won the final crowning her 'East Midlands 2lap Champion'.

This being Maizie's first season on the track, she is very pleased with her results.

For those interested in getting fit and trying out athletics for themselves, Corby AC have training on a Tuesday and a Thursday from 6.30pm until 7.30pm, and young people aged 8 and up are welcome.

Maizie in competition earlier this month. Image credit: Kirsty Whitbread.

Focusing on both track and field, the team have a wide range of coaches from sprinters, long distance, cross country and road runners to jump coaches and throw coaches.

The team said: "Corby AC is a friendly, competitive athletics club for everyone aged 8 upwards from Corby, the surrounding areas, and across Northamptonshire, Leicestershire, Rutland, Lincolnshire and Cambridgeshire. Our athletes train and compete to reach their individual potential and to achieve success together as a club.

"We run training sessions and take part in competition for track and field athletics, road running and cross country. Our coaches support everyone to achieve the success they are capable of, at all levels. Our volunteers, from the Chairman to the coaches, officials and stadium staff, run the club and make everything happen."

Maizie's proud mum added: "It is a fantastic, friendly club."