Stratford's Andrew Pozzi wins British hurdles title

STRATFORD'S Andrew Pozzi booked his place on the British team for this summer's European Championships as he claimed the 110m hurdles title at the British Championships in Birmingham.

The pressure was on the 26-year-old after an unexpected sixth place at the Commonwealth Games and some disappointing performances at the start of the outdoor season.

But three months after becoming World Indoor champion, he was back in Birmingham with conditions much warmer and in need of a solid showing with the big stage in Berlin just five weeks away.

After qualifying the fastest, the Stratford AC athlete stayed calm in a swirling wind at the Alexander Stadium to power ahead of the opposition and not even clattering the eighth hurdle could deny him the glory in 13.61 seconds.

Pozzi said: "It was an interesting race with strong winds so I didn't know what to do. When we were on the line it seemed to be coming from behind but it was really good fun to be out in Birmingham.

"I'm not in bad shape but I've had a few bad races for a few races, but I'll be ready for Berlin. There's a lot of quality in lots of events so winning the trials and cementing your place is incredibly important.

"I'm feeling really good but given the wind you can't read too much into the time."