Michael Baker will make his first senior international appearance this weekend when he heads to Austria today for an international meeting.

The 18-year-old from Lordswood will represent England in the 400m hurdles and he’s looking forward to the challenge.

Baker said: "They will be stronger, but I’m going there with confidence.

"I feel it’s about time I stepped up and I’m looking forward to gaining the experience.

"It’s a huge honour and it’s quite exciting to step up in class and compete against seniors."

Baker’s best time so far is 52.38sec and he’s hoping to push himself to another level when he competes.

"It would be nice to run a new personal best," he said. "I’m also trying out a new stride pattern. I want to raise my game and a sub-52 second would also be nice. I want to return to the schools competition hot off the heels of a good run."