TWO Bromsgrove-based hockey players have kept their country on course for European glory after reaching the semi-final stage.

Craig Parnham and Jennie Bimson (pictured) are part of the England men's and women's hockey teams currently competing at the European Nations Cup in Barcelona.

England captain Parnham, a hockey coach at Bromsgrove School, will lead his team out against Germany tomorrow (Thursday) after securing second place in Pool B.

Parnham scored from a penalty corner during his side's 4-3 victory over Poland on Monday. England also defeated Switzerland 4-2 on Sunday but lost 2-1 to Scotland last Friday. Their opening game, on Tuesday, September 2, saw them draw 2-2 with Italy.

Meanwhile, England's women, with Bimson, of Stoke Heath, have gone undefeated so far. They topped Pool B and will face Spain in the last four tomorrow.

After opening up with an 8-0 demolition of Italy, England saw off Wales 5-0 last Friday and Germany 5-1 24 hours later. They beat Ireland 3-0 on Monday.