Radley's Carolyn Plateau insists the champagne will remain on ice, despite confirmation that she has been selected to join double Olympic champion Dame Kelly Holmes's elite training squad.

The Oxford University student found out this week that she was one of 14 British middle-distance runners given the nod to join Holmes's 'On Camp with Kelly' scheme.

The initiative has been designed by Holmes - and backed by Norwich Union - to unearth the next generation of Olympic medallists in time for the 2012 Olympics.

The 18-year-old won a place on the two-week educational camp in April after impressing during an intense selection day ten days ago, despite being dogged by injury.

But with so many girls dropping out of the sport as they attempt to make the leap from junior to senior athlete, Plateau insists the hard work starts here as she bids to follow in Holmes's golden footsteps.

"Long term everyone is looking to 2012," she said.

"A lot of people tend to leave athletics as they make the step up, but with the degree of support like Kelly, UK Athletics and Norwich Union are showing us you can get over that and make it through to the senior ranks.

"I know a lot of people wanted me to go to a more sporty university, but the opportunity of going to Oxford was something that was difficult to refuse.

"But the scheme allows me to have a really good balance. I can still do my studies while also getting first-class advice on how to prepare me for a career I hope pans out.

"This year is my last as a junior and my big aim is to make an impact at the under 23 Europeans in Holland in July."

Plateau has already linked up with Holmes on previous training camps and Holmes is excited about helping the teenager advance to the next level during 2007.

Holmes said: "I see my role as helping to make sure that the girls are mentally and physically prepared for their races, but also that they are prepared for the practical elements of life as a world-class athlete, and all the challenges that may come with that.

"Carolyn demonstrated to us that she was determined and keen to take on those challenges."

  • Norwich Union is working with Kelly Holmes to prepare future champions through her successful mentoring scheme - 'On Camp with Kelly'.