A THEOLOGY student has been chosen to represent Britain in the world rowing championships.

Peter Rudge, 20, a student at Durham University, will join the men's eight crew in the championships in Seville, Spain, later this month.

He coxed the British men's four crew last year, and is already a world championship bronze medal winner.

His latest honour means he could qualify for the 2004 Olympics. Mr Rudge is currently in Austria training with the rest of the British men's crew, all of whom are professional athletes.

He said: "It's a great honour to be selected.

"Originally, I was competing for a place in the four again but I was thrilled to be given a chance to try out for the eight.

"It would be great to bring a medal back but at the minute, we're just busy concentrating on training."

Wade Hall-Craggs, rowing coach at Durham University, said: "Peter has shown real dedication and commitment to his goals this season, juggling national squad and university commitments well.

"This is a tremendous opportunity for him to secure a seat in an Olympic boat and he deserves it.

"Lets hope he gets a chance to add his name to the long list of Olympians from Durham University Boat Club and the North-East."