Yelling named European athlete of the month

GREAT Britain's Hayley Yelling has been named European women's athlete of the month for December.

HONOURED: Hayley Yelling's surprise win in Dublin has earned her more accolades, just 12 months after she initially quit the sport

Yelling's improbable victory at the European Cross Country Championships in Dublin was recognised following a public poll and consultation with leading sports writers.

The 35-year old schoolteacher hung up her spikes in 2008 but returned 12 months later to claim the senior title with a convincing front running display.

Alemayehu Bezabeh claimed the men's prize following his victory in Dublin, which also helped Spain win the overall team prize.