JAMIE Forrest will compete for Great Britain under 18s at the World Dragon Boat Championships in Tampa Bay, Florida, next month.

The 17-year-old Worcester Sixth Form College student paddles for Pershore Phoenix and is the first member of the club to achieve GB honours.

Forrest is determined to prove himself on the international stage after being diagnosed with dyspraxia, which affects coordination, at a young age.

He said: “I was always rubbish at sport at school but, with lots of hard training, I have really improved and my fitness has come on tremendously.”

Anyone who can help Forrest with his fundraising for the trip via sponsorship can call 01905-455448.