Harrow AC pole vault specialist Sophie Dowson added a giant 16cm to her lifetime best by scaling 3.52m for victory at the Brunel Jumps and Throws Festival.

Dowson is now third in the UK under-17 rankings for this year, and her mark was beaten by only five girls in the age group throughout 2014.

Dowson trains with the West London Pole Vault group, along with George Grant, the country’s leading Jewish male vaulter. Both are coached by England Athletics National coach, Ellie Spain.

"I was delighted to achieve that height," Dowson said.

"It boosts my confidence for the National Championships in Sheffield at the end of this month."