AFTER more than three decades of playing squash, a county player has achieved his lifelong ambition to represent his country.

Tom Burton, first team captain at Hereford Whitecross Club, has been selected for the England over-55s masters team to play in the Home Internationals tournament in March later this month.

Burton, who is a former Pegasus Juniors Hellenic League footballer, has previously been selected as a reserve team member, but did not get the call up to play.

The 56-year-old said he is determined to achieve international status he boosting his fitness levels.

“It’s a thrill to be able to fulfil my ambition to represent my country in a sport that has been my passion for over 30 years," said Burton.

“The masters squash scene in England goes from strength to strength.

"Six regional and two national competitions are held each year, with players from all over the country earning ranking points to qualify for the team.

“Last year, I made the squad as a reserve but wasn’t called upon to play.

This season I finished fifth in the rankings so qualified automatically.

“Making the team requires a huge amount of dedication, as well as the personal cost and time taken travelling up and down the country.

I have covered nearly 2,000 miles this season”.

Burton has been attending a six-week boot cap at Sixth Sense and engaging in solo practice to improve his stroke play.