CHATHAM TOWN’S Frannie Collin has been selected for the England school-boys under-18 side.

The 17-year-old joins a selection of 16 boys that were chosen following final trials at the national centre at Lilleshall.

Collin, who plays in the Southern League with Chatham Town as well as with Gillingham's youth squad, has had a hectic season so far.

And ex-Chatham boss Clive Walker - who is the new manager at Dover - is delighted to see his former star striker take his place amongst the country's elite.

He said: "It's a terrific honour for him, the town, and the club and he's been outstanding. He's done really well for the last two seasons and I'm glad for him as he deserves it.

"He was already here when I arrived and I had no problems about starting him in the team at such an early age."

Collin has been attending trials since November and will now join the squad on their trip to Jamaica in mid-February.

His mother Debbie was delighted with the news. She said: "We're really pleased for him and we'll keep our fingers crossed and hope everything goes okay."

Collin will continue his dual role at Gillingham and Chatham for the remainder of the season. He is then due to travel to China with the national team in May before returning to pre-season with the Gills in July.