JODIE Judd admits it was a ‘big shock’ to find out she has been selected to represent Great Britain in the European Athletics Under-23 Championships.

The 20-year-old, who hails from Canvey Island, is set to be among the 57 Brits heading to Sweden to participate in the competition.

And Judd cannot wait to be involved in the European Athletics Under-23 Championships when they get underway on July 11.

Judd said: “It was really exciting to be selected for the European Athletics Under-23 Championships.

“It’s a real honour to be able to go and do what I enjoy the most and get to represent my country at the same time.

“I went into the trials not even considering that it would be possible for me to qualify for the competition.

“I was just racing to get in one last 5k before I ended my season, so it was a big shock when I got the qualifying time and it was a very nice surprise to hear I’d be selected.

“My sister (Jessica) had also run a personal best in the trials race so it was a great evening and gave us a lot to celebrate.”

Some of Europe’s most promising athletes are due to head to the Swedish city of Gavle.

And Judd is excited to compete in the women’s 5000m.

“I’m just really excited to be in the team and to get the opportunity to race again,” added Judd.

“I don’t really have any big goals for the race.

“I am just going to do my best, have fun and see how it goes.”

And the former King John School pupil is keen to not put too much pressure on herself for the months and years ahead.

Judd admitted: “Looking to the future, I just want to keep running and enjoying it as much as I can.

“I try not to set too many goals as the past year has taught me that anything can happen, so I just want to keep trying to get better and see where that takes me.”

Great Britain team leader Michael Afilaka is looking forward to seeing the country’s young prospects in action in Sweden and has high hopes.

Afilaka said: “We are delighted to have selected such a strong team for these championships in Sweden.

“It is a proud moment for the athletes and their coaches and I congratulate them on earning selection.

“We have several medal contenders who will push the best in Europe over the four days of competition.

“There is great variety on the team.

“I’m excited to see how they all perform in Gavle next month.”