THE Cornwall Youth Badminton u17 team returned to national competition after a ten-year absence to compete in the Badminton England Harrod Inter-County tournament at the University of Nottingham, writes John Tresidder.

The team, sponsored by Dairy Crest Davidstow, had a tough first round group comprising Yorkshire (current and previous champions for eight years) Staffordshire and Middlesex.

The opening encounter against the defending champions was, in effect, Cornwall v England, owing to Yorkshire fielding a full England national team including the girls' current national champions at all disciplines - and the European u15 silver medallist in Sarah Milne.

Undeterred by such formidable opposition, Cornwall rose to the challenge and, although Yorkshire ran out 10-0 winners, the boys took one doubles rubber to three ends. Team's total points tally was the highest of any team that faced Yorkshire on day one.

Cornwall contested ten more matches, gaining invaluable experience having played 11; won 2, beating Guernsey and Northumberland; drew 4, including Middlesex, the London County and Berkshire, both 5-5 (lost 3, won 1, either on the games/points, count-back); Lost five.

The Duchy finished 39th.

The team was Tom Lyle (Captain), Douglas Andrews, Henry Sherwood, Luke Bristow, Peter Regan, Emily James, Bronwen Wotton, Claire Whitmore, Johanna Philp, Hollie Abbott.

Mr Alan Williams, owing to his retirement as the under 17 team's co-manager (in conjunction with Andy Lyle), was presented with a signed official team photograph at the end of their final match in recognition of his support and enthusiasm over many years.

n The Cornwall County Badminton AGM is being held at the Dragon Sports Centre, Bodmin, next Wednesday, May 9 at 7.30pm.