THREE talented students have achieved sporting success on a national level, with one Northumberland teenager competing in a British waterskiing event.

Anna Morris, from Alnwick, specialises in slalom skiing, and competed at the British Waterski Nationals in both the Under 17 Girls division, where she placed 5th, and in the Women’s Open category, where she placed 12th.

She started slalom skiing in 2018 at Merlin Brae Waterski Club, on Kielder reservoir, in Northumberland.

“I thoroughly enjoy waterskiing and hope to improve further over the coming year, and continue skiing when I go to university,” said Anna, who is in Year 13 at Dame Allan’s Sixth Form in Fenham.

More success as Charlie Smith, from South Shields, has been asked to train with the England Rugby under 18s squad following a great season with the Newcastle Falcons Academy and success with his club, Novocastrians RFU.

“I’m from a footballing background and was the first in my family to ever pick up and play with a rugby ball,” said Charlie.

Hexham Courant: SPORT: Anna Morris competing at British Waterski Nationals SPORT: Anna Morris competing at British Waterski Nationals

“From the very first time I played the game in Year 6, I was hooked and I knew almost immediately I wanted to be a professional player. It has always been a dream to be offered a contract and I am hoping to achieve that with the Newcastle Falcons later this year.”

Basketball star and Year 12 student Nicholas Archbold, from Gateshead, who plays with the Newcastle Eagles Academy, has been selected to play in the Elite Academy Basketball League (EABL).

The EABL is the highest-level junior basketball league in the UK and Nicholas, who is 6ft 5 inches, will train at least six hours a week at the Vertu Motors Arena alongside his A-Level studies.

Nicholas said: “I knew when I did my very first basketball summer camp four years ago that I wanted to play properly, initially joining the Cardinal Hornets before being selected for the Newcastle Eagles.”

Will Scott, Principal at Dame Allan’s Schools, said: “Sport plays such a pivotal role in our Schools and we have seen a welcome return to competitive fixtures for all our students.

“Anna, Charlie and Nicholas have taken their love of sport and natural talents to the next level and shown a commitment that is worthy of success.”