DAVE Westbury is the new Welsh under-20 steeplechase champion – after taking a few tips from club-mate Luke Gunn.

The 19-year-old took the title with a fine victory over reigning champion Gavin Hanrahan in Deeside, North Wales.

And it was a comfortable 15-second success for the Derby AC athlete as he finished the 2km course in 6.20.91.

Westbury, who is eligible to compete for Wales through his father, took time out to get some advice from Gunn on his hurdling technique in the week before the event.

Gunn himself was preparing to compete in the British trails in Birmingham, where he finished second in the 3km event, just missing out on an Olympic qualifying time.

Coach Pete Ivens believes Westbury is one of a group of young athletes who have the potential to make a big impact.

He said: “I've been coaching him for about two years. He is a natural hurdler and there seems to be a bright future for him in the event.

“He loves road races and cross country, so he has the endurance to cope with the distance involved and he is one of a group of lads who have done very well this season.

“The steeplechase is one of the more technical events and he doesn't seem to mind getting his feet wet.”

In Gunn, Westbury (pictured) has a fine role model. Ivens added: “He looks up to Luke and Luke was able to give him some tips on hurdling last week.”