Phillip Aspinall has underlined his true potential by becoming the British under 12s badminton champion.

The St Gabriel's Primary School pupil is now ranked number one in the country and has moved a step closer to representing his country.

Phillip, aged 11, who won his title at the National Badminton Centre in Milton Keynes, is on course to represent England at under 13s level.

His dad Steve, who is a coach in the Blackburn and District Badminton Association League, said: "It has been another good year for Phillip.

"He took part in the British Championships when he was a year young and did very well. But to return this year and win it was fantastic."

Phillip, who lives in Great Harwood, became one of the youngest players in the country to be selected for the national World Class Start programme.

The Lottery funding scheme earmarks young players who have the potential to compete for national and international honours.

While his dad says it is still too early to say what his son can achieve, Phillip is showing all the signs of a talented future. He won the North East singles and doubles events with partner Matthew Nottingham from Manchester and also won the singles in the North of England Championships in Rotherham.

But Phillip still finds time to turn out for St Phillips in the Blackburn League -- and play alongside his dad.

Steve added: "It is important he keeps his feet on the ground. The next couple of years are going to be important for him but I think it is only a matter of time before he represents England."