Huntingdon has a new national sporting champion . . . and he is just 10 years of age.

Hot prospect Sam Brugnoli won the English Bowls Youth Development Under 12 Championship at the first attempt.

The Huntingdon Indoor Bowls Club talent reeled off five successive victories in the recent finals at Melton Mowbray to capture the crown. He came through area and regional qualification events earlier in the year.

Brugnoli was then officially presented with the trophy by former world indoor singles champion – and fellow Huntingdon Indoor Bowls Club member - Nicky Brett and Mayor of Huntingdon, councillor Jay Dyne.

He was also given an England shirt worn by Brett, when on international duty recently, and a batch of clothing from the Henselite company.

Brugnoli’s bowling ability runs in the family. His parents Karen and Alan are both well-known players locally and his grandparents – Dennis and Sylvia Hagger - also play regularly.

“It is an amazing achievement and we’re all hugely proud of Sam,” said mum Karen.

“I was in tears when he won the title, but Sam seemed to take it all in his stride. I’m still not sure he understands the significance of what he has achieved.

“His discipline on the green is always excellent and he acts and plays with a maturity beyond his years.

“The main thing is he really enjoys playing the game. His dream is to be good enough to play in the World Indoor Championships and be selected for England.”

Brugnoli is part of Huntingdon Indoor Bowls Club’s junior programme which was launched three years ago and aims to nurture young talent.

Club secretary Tony Bradford said: “The directors and members of the club are very proud of Sam’s achievement at such a young age.”

Stukeley Meadows Primary School pupil Brugnoli has already represented the Hunts Under 25 county team outdoors and regularly features in senior competitions.

He is something of an all-round sportsman. He is also a capable runner and a promising footballer for the Brampton Spartans Under 11 team.