A BUDDING Borders runner has helped to claim a bronze medal for Scotland at an international event.

Gala Harriers’ Ava Richardson, 15, was among eight athletes picked to run for her country at the U18 Mountain Running International Youth Cup in Spain on Saturday.

The youngster helped the Scottish girls’ team to third place in picturesque Palencia.

The course was a 5.4km circular loop, with 225 metres of elevation gain.

Runners from across the world travelled to take part in the spectacle, with Spain taking gold and the US claiming silver ahead of the Scots in third.

A Scottish Junior Hill Running spokesperson said: “Many congratulations to the eight Scots who competed with pride earlier at the U18 Mountain Running International Youth Cup in Spain, with the headline news being the women’s team picking up a fantastic bronze medal against very tough competition.

“Ruth Walsh led the way home in eighth place overall, also first Brit home.

“Hot on her heels was Jessica Taylor in ninth, followed by Elsa McGregor in 16th and Ava Richardson in 44th.”