ROWING: A Spennells youngster has kept up a family tradition with an excellent start to his rowing career.

Luke Barnett, 11, won his first competition at Shrewsbury Regatta while racing for Bewdley Rowing Club in the J-12 single sculls.

His father Stewart is well-known on the circuit, competing in the British Veterans Championships and abroad, while younger brother Alex has just taken up the sport.

Barnett's mother Debbie, who also rows, said: "Luke didn't stop smiling for quite a while after winning.

"I'm really pleased for him as it's done his confidence a power of good. He wants to go quite far in the sport and has been rowing on off for nine months."

The Comberton Middle School pupil won his semi-final against a Chester opponent and then beat an Evesham rower in the final, both by around three boat lengths.

Barnett, who is coached by Mick Edmunds, hopes to compete at Bridgnorth next month.