TWO Tynedale footballers established themsleves among Europe's elite last week as they won gold representing England at the European Nations Cup. 

Powerchair footballers Sam Smith and Edward Common have long been on the path to success with a string of stand out performances in recent months, and their recent visit to Finland proved no different as they went all the way to win the title. 

Scoring 12 goals throughout the whole competition, including a hat-trick in the semi final win against Denmark, Common's efforts paired with Smith's five goals were no doubt key to England's gold medal success. 

A special mention goes to one of the district's rising golf stars who won a hat-trick of trophies.

Zara Naughton, a Year 8 pupil at Ponteland High School, claimed all three of the girls' championships at the Northumberland County Schools Golf Championships. 

After beating a field of 70 players between the ages of 10 and 18, it's clear to see she has the potential to be a top player. 

Hexham U15 Greens replicated the fine form of Manchester City and Liverpool in this year's Premier League to go on a 12-match unbeaten run to clinch the U15 Pin Point Premier League. 

The side's high pressure attacking style saw them score 45 goals over the course of 14 games. 

If one trophy wasn't enough, the Greens also saw off tough competition to lift the the West Division Youth U15 Cup. 

Also highly commended this week are the Queen Elizabeth High School Rowing Club. 

The team pulled off eight event wins and proved competitive in all their races, winning 22 in total. 

The team will hope to carry on their winning form in this weekend's Hexham Regatta.