Claire Stewart hit the bullseye when she represented her country for the first time in the European Youth Cup, writes CRAIG STODDART.

A year ago the New Brancepeth youngster said her aim was to play for England, and that dream came true when Claire was selected to play in the European Youth Cup where she won three gold medals.

The 15-year-old, who began playing the game when she was aged just eight, won her golds in the pairs, team and ladies section events while she picked up a silver in the singles event against a Russian opponent who was backed up by a healthy entourage of docters, physiotherapists and coaches.

Proud parents Alistair and Margaret both travelled to Bremen, Germany, to witness their daughter's achievements.

Margaret was pleased with Claire's display, saying: "The standard was very high. I thought she might do well, and, obviously, I would have liked to have seen her win, but to me there were no losers.

"The only losers are the ones that weren't there."

Commenting on Claire's loss in the singles final to a member of the strong Russian team, Margaret said: "The Russians had all these docters and they were giving the players massages."

Claire's next big date comes when she plays in a North versus South match in the Midlands tomorrow.