LEDBURY prospect Chad Warren has set his sights on representing Herefordshire at the national finals this year.

The 10-year-old is the first county player to win an under 11s national-ranked singles tournament.

He has triumphed in both Oxford and Warwick after previously clinching gold medals in doubles competitions in Reading and Bournemouth.

The Herefordshire Badminton Academy star has reached seven national finals this season in total.

Warren said “I am grateful to all my coaches and teammates who have helped in my development so far.

“I hope to carry on improving so I can represent Herefordshire in the national finals in April.”

He attends the University of Worcester Performance Centre and is a member of Halo’s elite scheme.

Warren became the first county player to win an under 11 national-ranked singles tournament in Oxford.

Competing in an entry of 42, Chad defeated three seeded players on his way to victory.

Then in Warwick he repeated the feat, beating the national-ranked number four player in the semi-finals 11-7, 11-1 before overcoming the competition’s top seed in an exciting final.

The county academy was started by local players and coaches to provide young people with an opportunity to experience and develop their ability in the sport.

For further details, contact secretary Les Butts on 01905- 381639, by e-mail at lesbutts@ waitrose.com or visit herefordshirebadminton.co.uk