An international sportswoman has returned from an unsuccessful bid for a place in next year’s Olympics in Tokyo, but she has nonetheless praised her team’s effort.

Fakenham & Wells Times: Amie Hutchison in Utrecht, where she played for a place in the Olympics PICTURE: ContributedAmie Hutchison in Utrecht, where she played for a place in the Olympics PICTURE: Contributed (Image: Contributed)

Amie Hutchison, from Fakenham, is part of the British women's softball baseball team, who recently played qualifying games in Utrecht, Netherlands.

After beating Spain 9-2 and South Africa 15-0, the team finished among the top of their pool, before beating the Netherlands and the Czech Republic. The team needed only one more win to take an Olympic place, but they fell to Italy 0-5.

Miss Hutchison said: "It has been an incredible experience and so honoured to represent my country. The British team became admired and feared over the summer, and we earned a place in the top echelon of European softball.

"Thanks to those who donated and sponsored me through my fundraisers, as without them I wouldn't have been able to accomplish any of this success."

Fakenham & Wells Times: Amie Hutchinson defending her base in the run-up to the qualifiers PICTURE: Supplied by Amie HutchinsonAmie Hutchinson defending her base in the run-up to the qualifiers PICTURE: Supplied by Amie Hutchinson (Image: Archant)