A full-time apprentice for Network Rail from Kettering is set to represent Great Britain in the European Indoor Archery Championships.

Illaria Knibb, 23, started barebow archery while at university, having previously enjoyed the sport while on holiday.

Not only has she become manager of the Bedfordshire county team, but she is also the UK Indoor National Champion.

She will compete in Bulgaria in February, against Europe’s elite.

“It’s an incredible honour to be selected. Stepping onto the international stage in a GB shirt represents not just my hard work but the encouragement, mentorship and opportunities from my club, coaches, workplace and community.

“Balancing a full‑time engineering apprenticeship with high‑performance training has pushed me in every possible way. This is more than a sporting achievement for me – it’s a testament to perseverance, discipline, and the power of believing in a goal even when the path isn’t easy.”

“I was struggling with depression but archery gave me purpose. It gave me something to hold on to when everything else felt unsteady. Standing on the shooting line – in silence, with nothing but my breath, my bow, and the target in front of me – gave me a sense of calm I couldn’t find anywhere else.”

 Illaria Knibb