MEMBERS of Hereford Badminton Academy are proving their talents by medalling at a host of tournaments across the country.

Joe Howells, aged 15, recently took gold in the singles event at the National Badminton England Under-17 Gold tournament held in Leigh, Lancashire.

The Whitecross High School trains at the Hereford Badminton Academy and University Of Worcester Badminton Performance Centre.

Howells played in all three disciplines at the event, beating the number one seed in the final of the men's singles.

He also won a bronze medal in the men's doubles, and got through to the quarter-final stage of the mixed doubles.

Howells is a current recipient of a Halo Sports Foundation Award and is aided by Yonex through Maurice Robinson Sports, Birmingham.

Rachel McGill, head coach at Hereford Badminton Academy said: "This is a brilliant result for Joe and Herefordshire.

"To win a Gold Tournament is extremely difficult. It is testament to the hard work he puts into training week in, week out.

"Not only is his own game improving, he is now helping to coach the younger players in our club. "We are all incredibly proud of Joe and the season has only just begun."

Hattie Hebert, aged 12, has also won a total for two bronze medals, two silver medals and three gold medals in the month of October alone, competing in under-15 and under-17 tournaments.

Hattie could add to her medal tally this coming weekend when she takes to the court once again in an under-15 tournament.

Meanwhile, Bethany Preston, aged 10, recently won gold medals in the girls’ under-14 and under-16 tournaments in the Great Orme.

She also won gold in the girls’ under-14 doubles with Alex Essenhigh, aged 11, who is another member of Hereford Badminton Academy.

Emily Gillson, aged 13, won an impressive three medals over the course of last weekend, winning bronze medals in under-15 girls' singles, girls' doubles and mixed doubles' in Worcester and Gloucester tournaments.