Kathryn Stevens takes her first step towards competing in the European Junior Championship this week.

The 2002 Sussex champion has been included in a 12-strong British squad for a training camp in France.

Stevens, who competes for the Uckfield club, said: "I've been trying for more than six years to reach this standard so I hope to make it."

Two gymnasts will be dropped after the training camp in France and, providing she gets through, Stevens must undergo further trials to secure selection for the five-strong British team to compete in Holland in April.

Stevens, 14, was unable to defend her Sussex title this year because of injury.

Her coach, Janice Binder, said: "It was a disappointment for her to miss the Sussex Championships when she sprained her ankle attempting a triple twist. But she has battled her way back."

Binder says Stevens almost quit the sport.

"We had a few ups and downs with her when she was aged 13 and struggled to keep her in the gym. It is a time the body changes shape and the brain becomes disorientated when something like a multiple twist is required.

"Mentally and physically it was a difficult time. But she's through it now."

Binder says Stevens has the potential to challenge for an Olympic place in Beijing four years from now.

"She's a good all-rounder. Kathryn doesn't have a weakness on the apparatus and is good on the floor. I feel she is good enough to make the Olympics.

"A lot depends on the mental side but I think she can keep her nerves under control.

"Kathyrn has been inspired by the success of British gymnast Beth Tweddle, who won a bronze medal at the last world championships.

"Beth proved to Kathryn that gymnasts from this country can make an impression on a big stage."

Binder was asked to be the national coach for the trip to France She said: "I had too many commitments at the club.

"It'll be the first time Kathryn's been on a trip without me.

"Hopefully she can bring back a video of how she did so we can work on things."