Shropshire Archer Alison Williamson strikes gold

Shropshire archer Alison Williamson has battled through the pain barrier to strike gold at a major European event.

Williamson, who is based at Church Stretton, almost withdrew from the European Grand Prix in Antalya in Turkey because of a finger injury.

But the 39-year-old decided to fly out at the last minute and was rewarded with victory in the women's recurve.

Williamson twice fought back from behind to complete a 6-4 victory against her fellow veteran and former world champion Natalia Valeeva of Italy in the final.

"It's a fantastic day for British archery, and for Alison individually, and we're all really proud of her," said performance director Sara Symington.

"Like Alison, Natalia's a fantastic archer, and always a difficult opponent to beat.

"We had two very experienced competitors going head to head, and we're delighted, on this occasion, Alison's come out on top."

Williamson is working towards representing Britain in her sixth Olympic games at London next year.

She won a bronze medal at the Athens Olympics in 2004 and also enjoyed success at last year's Commonwealth Games inDelhi where she picked up two silver medals.

Britain's men also landed gold in the recurve team event.