British number one and two shot putters Julie Dunkley and Myrtle Augee have a unique sporting friendship, which could spur them on to Commonwealth Games glory next week.

The pair are great mates off the field and encourage each other when training and competing.

Myrtle was named England team captain and is going for her fifth Games. She has won a gold, two silvers and a bronze at her previous appearances.

She said: "I was over the moon when I found out I was the captain. It was nice to see them recognise my experience. I get on well with everyone and it's a young team."

The 37-year-old from Lewisham, and member of Bromley AC, reaffirmed her status as British No. 1 shot putter by winning the Birmingham AAA National Championships in fine style.

The former Commonwealth Champion was thrilled with her throw of 16m 16cm, which augurs well for the imminent Games. Julie finished just behind in second place.

But the roles were reversed in the Commonwealth Games trials in June, as Julie came first and Myrtle finished in second place.

Prison officer Myrtle said: "Julie is an absolute darling. We've always got on. She's the first training partner I've shared a room with.

"We're competitive, yes, but we have the personalities to get on and encourage each other. We both want to do well and see the other do well and it rubs off on each other.

"She helped me get back from injury and I've helped her development."

Julie, who is 22, from Dartford said: "We have a friendly rivalry and a good joke. I don't mind what position I come as long as we both finish in the top two. We have such a good rivalry that we encourage each other on.

"I'm really excited about the Games. It will be a great experience for me. It will be my first major senior championships and it will be nice to be on home turf. It will be nice to see my family and friends there."

John Hillier, from Woolwich, trains the pair and he will be in Manchester as one of England's Commonwealth Games coaches.

He said: "They are brilliant together. Myrtle was Julie's idol when she first started out and they are a joy to train with, so much fun.

"Julie was shouting for Myrtle at the trials and Myrtle would do the same. If one beats the other, they are pleased with the other one.

"Most rivals don't want to share a room, but they have a lovely relationship and have gelled very well."

John is a Commonwealth Games medalist himself, picking up a bronze for the shot put in 1974 at Christchurch.

He also represented England in 1970 and 78 and lectures in PE at Goldsmiths University. John has known Myrtle since she was a 13-year-old and has coached her since then.

He added: "She'll make a great team captain. She is the first woman to do the job and I'm very proud of her.

"She cares so much about people and everyone likes her. She is one of the most popular people in the team and a lot of the squad go to her if they have any problems.

"She's perfect for the job, comunicates well and is sympathetic.

"Julie is very similar to Myrtle. She is fun, intelligent, a fantastically hardworker and a nice person. She has been a top junior for years competing around the world. If Myrtle retires after the Games, then Julie can be the number one for quite a while. She is very determined and powerful."

Julie, who is a member of Shaftesbury Barnet Harriers, said: "I want to finish in the top 6. It's going to be pretty tough this year and it will take a throw of 17m or more to win it."

Myrtle said: "It's going to be difficult. It's about doing the best I can. I haven't been in the best shape like previous Commonwealth Games. But we'll see what happens on the day.

"If it wasn't for John's enthusiasm, I wouldn't be where I am today.

"It's marvelous to be there for a fifth time. I've worked hard and it's been a struggle. I'd love to finish in the top three. It would be fantastic if we both get a podium finish."