Williamson is one of three British women going to Athens

Williamson was beaten to the gold by Poland's Iwona Marcinkiewicz, with a close final going to the final arrow.

Britain took silver in the men's team event, with the final against Holland going down to the last three arrows.

The four-man team beat Russia, the Czech Republic and Slovenia to reach their showdown against the Dutch.

"It was a great performance, they did really well and can be proud of their efforts," said GB performance director Barry Eley.

Speaking about the women's effort, he added: "All our girls did well, and obviously Alison's silver medal finish bodes well for the Olympics."

Williamson wins Athens spot

It is Williamson's second European Championship silver medal - she won one previously in 1991.

She is one of three women archers in Britain's team for the Olympics.

Helen Palmer and Naomi Folkard, who finished 32nd and 39th respectively in Brussels, will also compete in Athens.

Charlotte Burgess, 17, who narrowly missed out on qualifying for the Olympics, again showed why she is being tipped for a bright future in the sport by finishing 25th.

Eley said: "Obviously she was very disappointed after going so close, but nevertheless was pleased with the silver medal.

"It's a great confidence-booster ahead of a major championship, and there are still a couple of events for Alison, Helen and Naomi to fine-tune before Athens."