England has produced a host of athletics heroes over recent years - from Mo Farah to Jess Ennis-Hill to Greg Rutherford – but now heads are being turned by European indoor champion Katarina Johnson-Thompson.

The 22-year-old has quickly risen through the ranks, also claiming the British high jump record on her way, and is now eagerly anticipating the 2018 Gold Coast Commonwealth Games.

A foot injury resulted in Johnson-Thompson missing out on competing at the Commonwealth Games in Glasgow last year but she believes that in order to feel successful in her career, Commonwealth Gold is essential.

“The Commonwealth Games have always been on my books and I was devastated last year not to compete. It’s definitely important because I want to get the full set. I always want to make the next step,” said Johnson-Thompson, who is also eagerly anticipating a trip to Australia’s scenic Gold Coast.

“I am especially looking forward to it because it’s on the Australian Gold Coast, I’d like to go there and experience the city.”

The XXI Commonwealth Games will be hosted in the Gold Coast area of Queensland on the east coast of Australia in 2018. Athletes and spectators from across the World will be able to enjoy Australia’s renowned beaches by day and spectacular skyline by night, whilst the Commonwealth’s leading athletes compete at the Carrara Stadium.

And the English heptathlete is expected to shine in the Gold Coast, having already experienced a successful start to her career.

“The highlight so far for me was probably winning my first senior gold in Prague. Or even the first time I broke the British high jump record and I hope to achieve much more success, particularly at the Commonwealth Games.”

By 2018, the Liverpool born athlete will have gained experience from major events such as the 2016 Olympic Games and the World Championships in London 2017, so fully expects to be able to achieve Commonwealth success.

“Personal bests come with maturity and in time you also become more consistent across all of the events, so leaving the 2018 Commonwealth Games with a medal is a realistic goal for me.”