Theodore Purkis, aged eight, a pupil at The Grange in Monmouth, started playing tennis at the age of six and was soon 'spotted' by Monmouth coach Chris Davis.

Chris immediately recognised that Theo had a talent for the game and coached him in his early days.

Two years later, Theo is now playing at national level, with many of his competitors being 18 months older than him – a huge differential at this age.

The summer has been a non-stop round of tournaments which has seen him competing from Glasgow in the north to Torquay in the south.

He got off to a fantastic start by winning the Regional Taunton Open, then carrying the success to Loughborough University where he won against very tough and older opposition.

His dedication, determination, hard work and, above all, love of the game was recognised and led to an invitation to qualify for the National Tournament in Sheffield where he won the tournament for his age group, giving him the honour of being No.1 nationally for his age.

The following day, Theo won three matches in the age group above him which resulted in the opportunity to play the No.1 seed. Although he didn't win this game, it was a tense and thrilling match.

His success in Sheffield led to automatic qualification for the National Tournament in Glasgow, where he again won all matches on day one and won through on day two to the semi-finals, eventually finishing third in the tournament; an amazing achievment against older and more experienced players.

Theo went on to win in tournaments in Torquay, Burnham on Sea, Swansea, Malvern and Gloucester.

All in all, a tremendous summer.

"We are extremely thankful to his coaches, the LTA, his school and all who are helping with his development," said Mrs Purkis, who spends most of her evenings and weekends taking Theo to tennis practise and matches.

"We are so very proud."