BLACKPOOL'S West Coast Wasps were presented with the British Inline Skater Hockey national champion's trophy this week.

They won the cup after battling it out at the national finals in Harlepool with 24 regional league winners.

A run of six victories saw them through to the qualifying rounds to the final when they stormed to convincing victory over Borhemwood Lionhearts 5 -1.

The Wasps will now go on to play in the European Championships in Germany or Switzerland next year.

Team manager and club secretary Mick Caunce said: "This is a tremendous achievement for the club.

"All the players, coaches and club members should be very proud of what we have achieved.

"The club was formed in 1999 and to go on and become national champions in our first season is something we never dreamed would happen.

"All the boys are looking forward to playing in the Eurpopean Championships but before we can go we need to raise quite a bit of money for travel and expenses.

"We really need some help to fund what will be a wonderful occasion and all the team members fully deserve this chance of a lifetime."

If you would like to help the team out or would like to know more information about the club contact Mick Caunce on 314638.