The 17-year-old from Lightcliffe earned his call up after performing well in a series of qualifying races which saw him finish joint third - the top four finishers making up the England team.

Bayton, who attends North Halifax Grammar School where he is studying for his A levels, is a member of Halifax Harriers and started to come to prominence in cross country events.

However, a preference to perform in longer races saw him take up fell-running around a year ago.

Bayton has gained representative honours at cross country with both Calderdale Schools and West Yorkshire, but this will be his first call up as a fell runner.

He recently won a silver medal in his age group at the Yorkshire fell-running championships in Gargrave.

His father, Ian, said Steven was absolutely delighted with his call up, adding: "He has worked very hard and fully deserves his chance."

Bayton is hoping to go to university to study Civil Engineering but his father insists it will be a place similar to Sheffield. "Somewhere with hills," he added.

Bayton's talent was first spotted when he attended a Halifax Harriers summer course around seven years ago.