Richard Buck will be at the European Under-20 Athletics Championships next week after receiving his official call-up.

The 400 metres Nestl Rowntree ace sealed a stunning comeback from appendicitis after becoming English Schools' Champion in a time of 47.22 seconds - well in the 47.50 target.

It sent a clear message to the Great Britain selectors that he had returned to fitness after a ten-week lay-off - and that message was yesterday translated into a ticket to Lithuania.

The 18-year-old from Pickering will be going for gold in the individual and 4x400m events as he aims to make good a goal he set himself last year.

Coach Geoff Barraclough said: "His aim from last year was to win the European Junior. That might be a bit difficult but I think he's capable of getting a medal at least."

Standing in Buck's way is a gruelling competition schedule which would see him racing on four consecutive days if he makes it through to both finals.

Said Barraclough: "That's a lot for a 400m runner, although it will be the same for everyone else."

Updated: 10:04 Wednesday, July 13, 2005