The 40-year-old nurse broke her breastbone at work a few weeks ago.

But she battled through the pain barrier to blast her way to the Olympic Skeet title at Dundee over the weekend.

The victory will allow Nickie to take part in the Commonwealth Games later this month - although her score won’t count as part of the Scottish team.

Nickie told the Border Telegraph: “My sternum hurt a little but it didn’t prevent me from shooting.

“I thought I had missed out on the Commonwealth Games as I hadn’t been shooting when the Scottish selections were made.

“By winning the Scottish title I have been asked to be a filler at the Games - which means I get to experience the competition without my scores counting.

“It was good to get the win as it puts me in good stead for the 2018 Commonwealth Games as well as next year’s British Championships.” Nickie began shooting at Braidwood near Midlem almost 20 years ago.

Switching to Olympic Skeet seven years ago has led to many Scottish and British honours.

And after a brief break from the sport, she’s gunning yet again for more titles.

Nickie added: “I stopped shooting for about a year but I’m pleased to be back again.

“I’m excited about going to the Commonwealth Games and hopefully I will do well.” Nickie will join the Scotland Clay Target team on Thursday, July 24, for a day of practice before taking part in the following day’s competition at the Barry Buddon Shooting Centre at Carnoustie.