CALL: Amanda Parkinson BAXENDEN'S Amanda Parkinson could be up against Paula Radliffe after being selected for Great Britain's team to compete in the World Cross-Country Championships in Dublin.

Amanda, who used to run for Hyndburn AC but now runs for Sale, will run in the 4km race on Sunday, March 25.

The 29-year-old finished fourth in her trial at Nottingham and faced an anxious wait as only the top three were definitely in.

"I got a phone call on Saturday night to say I was selected and I'm delighted.

"I have only competed in the World Championships once before, in Morocco in 1998, but I didn't do myself justice so it's good to have another chance.

"I don't get much chance to compete against Paula. She usually runs abroad and I took time out to have a baby so it's great for me but my season has gone quite well and it will be a good experience.

"Paula is a different class though. I'm just aiming for a top 30 finish."

And Amanda is hoping the course in Dublin suits her.

"I've looked at it on the Internet and part of it will be rough, on a horse racing course and the other is part of a golf course which should be quite smooth. I'll enjoy that part best!

"Six of us have been selected for the GB team and four will count in the actual race. I just hope I'm one of the counters."

Radcliffe, the British team captain, is deciding whether to run in both the 4km and the 8km, which is the day before on Saturday.