BETH Crumpton continued her excellent form cyclo-cross form as she bagged Under-23 silver in the National Championships in Shrewsbury last weekend.

The Redditch cycling star tackled a very muddy course to finish second behind Malvern’s Evie Richards.

Richards led from the outset but Crumpton demonstrated strength and determination to make sure of the runners-up spot.

She said: “It was very muddy but it was just like that in Bradford in December in the National Series so I was used to it.

“I was really happy to win a silver medal.

“The girl who won the race played hockey and that made a difference in those conditions when you have to pick up your bike and run.

“But I must say I love it when it’s wet and muddy, that’s when I am at my best.”

Nikki Harris and Liam Killeen were among the winners on day two of the Championships, staged at a muddy course which provided plenty of drama.

While Crumpton’s first discipline is mountain biking, she’s embraced cyclo-cross over the winter.

She’s been in excellent form in the National Trophy series, coming third in the elite women category in the most recent round in Yorkshire last month.

“I have only been using cyclo-cross to help make the winter more interesting so I have been preparing for it as I have been going along,” said Beth.

“But I must say I am thoroughly enjoying racing in it.”

She’s hoping her a series of strong cyclo-cross performances will also help book her place in the Team GB squad competing at the World Championships in Belgium.

The Championships take place at the end of January at the Zolder circuit.

Crumpton added: “It would be fantastic to be called up for the World Championships.

“The competition is at the end of the month so I should hear very soon.”