Huntingdonshire Athletics Clubs' Brandon Ballard won gold in the para 1,500m race at the England Athletics Senior and Para National Championships.

The 20-year-old set himself a new personal best time of 4:08.66 during his impressive victory at Chelmsford Athletics Stadium on the weekend of July 22-23.

Brandon is an autistic athlete and was racing in the T20 classification, which is for athletes who have an intellectual impairment, and can now be selected and travel for international races.

The Hunts Post: Brandon beat para athletes from North Devon and Tonbridge Athletics Clubs to first-place on the podium. Brandon beat para athletes from North Devon and Tonbridge Athletics Clubs to first-place on the podium. (Image: Denise Korkmaz)

Brandon's coach Denise Korkmaz said: "Brandon is an absolute pleasure to coach he works hard and is a really strong and popular member of our talented squad. He is a very clever racer."

​READ MORE: England call-ups and medal joy for Hunts athletes at county championships

Brandon had fractured his foot early in the season but continued to keep himself fit with cycling and exercises, which contributed to his gold medal success.

"His progress over the last few years has been amazing. There is so much more to come," added Denise.

"We are working towards an international vest which is very close, and have set a big target for Brandon to aim to get to Paralympics next year and the big championships over the next few years.

"With Brandon’s love for running and ability, I am sure he can achieve great things.”