CHARLOTTE Edwards has returned from the World Biathle Champ-ionship with the top 10 place she was looking for.

The Colne teenager finished in 10th place in her age group in the finals which were held in South Africa.

The 17-year-old has set her sights on competing in London 2012 Olympics in the triathlon – and this was considered an important stepping stone towards her ultimate goal.

“Charlotte was delighted with the result considering how difficult the conditions were,” said dad Michael Edwards. “She flew out to South Africa hoping for a top 10 place in her age group and that is exactly what she achieved.”

The Biathle, which is a run, swim, run event including a 200m swim sandwiched betweeen two gruelling 1500m runs in soaring temperatures And Edwards, who studies at Colne and Nelson College was the third British athlete in her category.

The former Fishermore High School pupil is considering a prospect for London 2012 and this will further enhance her reputation as one of the sports rising stars.

Edwards booked her place on the flight to Cape Town after finishing fourth in the European Biathle Championships at Salford Keys in Manchester.

She is a member of both Burnley Bobcats and Blackburn Centurions and also trains at Pendle Athletics Club.

Edwards finished third in last year’s Pendle Triathlon, the first time she had competed in the event, and followed up with another third place in this year’s event – although she knocked 20 minutes off her inaugural time.

While she has a number of low key events this year, Edwards will be hoping to make a big impact next season, including the World Biathle Championships in Monaco.