FLEET-footed Charlotte Birch from Droitwich Spa High School put in an impressive performance at the npower regional athletics competition for disabled athletes at Birmingham's Alexander Stadium.

Worcestershire athletes gave a good showing at the event with Birch, who won the under 17s 100 metres, holding off serious competition from Louise Field and Jacquie Lennon (Chadsgrove School, Bromsgrove) and Danielle Portman (Rose Hill School, Worcester).

Nick Bignall, from RNIB New College Worcester, took home gold in the 200m, the javelin and the discus events.

Bromsgrove paralympian medallist Richard White, 25, showed the sort of form he has enjoyed in the past, winning the 200m, ahead of fellow Cannock and Stafford Athletic Club team-mate Steven Allen. White also triumphed in the 100m, pipping Chadsgrove School's Phillip Daffin to the post.

Organised by the English Federation of Disability Sport, the npower regional athletics competition is fast becoming the leading regional competition for disabled athletes, with 350 from 33 clubs and schools taking part.

There were track and field disciplines with athletes competing across all levels, including members of the under 17 West Midlands Junior Athletics squad, who took part as a step towards qualifying for the National Junior Athletics Championships.

Dennis Hodgkins, regional development manager of the EFDS, said: "This is the largest participation event for disabled athletes in the West Midlands.

"The athletes are not only aiming to qualify for National Championships but also have London 2012 in their sights."

Kevin Rodgers, community involvement executive for Worcester-based npower, added: "Congratulations go to the Worcestershire athletes.

"I believe there were over 80 altogether at the 2007 competition and there were some fine sporting performances.

"The number of young disabled athletes taking part in sport and the range of sports open to them is rising steadily and you only have to look at Britain's achievements in the paralympics to measure what amazing team and individual successes there have been."