Word whiz nets US trip to take on world

A TEENAGE computer whiz-kid from Sawtry Community College took first prize at this year s Microsoft UK Office Competition, winning a trip to Orlando. Tom Childs, aged 15, was up against 40 other competitors of all ages from across the UK in the challenge

A TEENAGE computer whiz-kid from Sawtry Community College took first prize at this year's Microsoft UK Office Competition, winning a trip to Orlando.

Tom Childs, aged 15, was up against 40 other competitors of all ages from across the UK in the challenge which tests computer skills.

Tom, who scored an impressive 97 per cent, was part of a Sawtry one-two as 15-year-old Laura Walker, who also attends the college, matched his score.

However, as Tom was quicker in completing the challenge, he picked up first prize.

A total of 2,500 people entered the competition by taking part in special Microsoft exams in Word 2003.

The top 40 people were then invited to take part in the finals at Sheffield Hallam University on July 6.

Tom will fly to Orlando today (Wednesday) to take part in the three day Microsoft Office Championships that will see a representative from countries around the world battling it out to find the Microsoft Office World Champion. Last year the title was won by Switzerland.

Alan Stevens, assistant principal of Sawtry Community College, said: "The school is very proud of them all. They all did excellent. Tom is a quiet and modest lad so he is not saying much about his win but we can all tell he is excited about the trip to Orlando."

Chantalle Noyce and Geogia Walker from Sawtry Community College also took part in the finals at Sheffield Hallam University and scored 91 per cent.