A YOUNG Worcester hockey player has become a national champion for the second year running.

Chris Kendall, aged 13, was part of the Midlands team that won the United Kingdom's Under 14s Regional Tournament at Beeston, Nottingham, last month.

The Christopher Whitehead pupil, who won the same event at under 13s level last year, helped his team to victory over the West (4-0), North West (5-1) and South West (4-2).

They also secured draws against the East (1-1), North East (2-2) and South East (2-2).

Kendall, who played in all six matches of the league table competition, was one of several players in the Midlands squad to herald from Worces-tershire.

Goalkeeper Will Burns and Todd Dudley both play for Stourport, while coaches Mark Moss and Ben Dudley both have Worcester connections.