LEIGH hurdler Sharon Walls narrowly missed out on qualifying for the European Championships in Finland.

Eighteen-year-old Sharon competed in the National Junior AAA Championships and managed to qualify for the final of the 100m hurdles when she ran a good heat in 14.2 seconds.

The Wigan Harriers girl was unable to get into her rhythm in the final -- finishing seventh in a disappointing 14.8 seconds at the Bedford National Stadium.

But Sharon proved her potential last month when she won the silver medal at the North of England Championships at senior level -- despite being the only junior competitor in the field.

Her coach, Don Moss, said: "I'm proud of Sharon's progress this season, with her personal best of 13.9 seconds. This was not her true form. It was a scorching day and everyone concerned are obviously disappointed but not downhearted.

"Sharon is only 18 and still learning her trade. She will bounce back from this hiccup a stronger and more determined athlete, 13.75 seconds is European standard so it proves Sharon is an outstanding prospect.

"To take junior gold and silver at senior level is no mean feat for a teenager. Let's be honest, we only just missed out on a Great Britain tracksuit and a trip to Finland."