Bank House Hotel, Bransford, youngster Dean Hemming helped England win the Home Countries International Under 25s Bowls title for the fourth time in five years at Ayr yesterday.

Hemming, who first played for his country as an 18-year-old five years ago was given the toughest task possible when he was recalled to the England team as skip.

Hemming had to steer three debutants, Leicestershire's Greg Fardell, Wiltshire's Neil Hope and Northamptonshire's Chris Bland through their first international series.

In their opening contest against Wales, Hemming and company were edged out 23-19 by Steve Harris, but across the green England stormed home 132-116, collecting 16 of the 22 points at stake.

Scotland slammed Ireland 137-111 in that session.

England then took on the 'old enemy' Scotland in the second session and Hemming was beaten 24-14 by Stuart Hogg.

However England produced a fighting finish to narrowly defeat the Scots 125-114, picking up 18 points for their efforts.

Scotland led 38-22 after five ends, 66-52 at halfway and 88-84 at the three quarter mark before England launched their victory charge.

In the final session Hemming lost 27-13 to Ian Ross but again England easily triumphed across the six rinks, demolishing Ireland 139-104 to collect 20 points.

That success secured the Sealy Trophy, England finishing with 54 points, ahead of Scotland (38), Wales (30) and Ireland (10).