BADMINTON star Charlotte Graham has enjoyed more success after making the step up to play in the prestigious Northumberland Badminton Association Summer Graded Tournament.

The event, held in Newcastle, grades each player from A to E depending on where they are ranked in the Northumberland senior leagues.

Already well-known for often competing above her age category Charlotte, and doubles partner Tim Bodani, participated in the ‘B’ category, higher than their actual grade.

The pair won their group, coming through unbeaten, including wins against Lai/Yan 21-15, 21-11 and a surprising win against number one seeds Henderson and Merfels, coming from behind to win 18-21, 22-20, 21-19.

This earned them a semi-final against number two seeds O’Neil and Knox. Their opponents high ranking didn’t deter them though as they earned a place in the final, winning 21-17, 21-17.

They both acknowledged that their performance in the final was their best so far - an impressive 21-11, 21-10 victory.

In the ladies’ doubles, all of the grade categories were combined into one event. Charlotte, once again paired with Amy Ward, continued their recent run of success on the national junior circuit by taking gold.

Charlotte said: “It was a long day and I’m so happy with how all of the juniors have done. It’s always more of a challenge against adults, especially in the mixed doubles, because the shuttle is often moving faster and the rallies are often longer, but I’m getting more used to playing against adults now.

“Tim and Amy were both on really good form today, and they are both great partners because they remain positive and are as determined as I am.”

Ponteland teenager Bodani matched Charlotte’s double gold haul with victory in the men’s doubles ‘B’ grade, with partner Vikram, including impressive victories on the way to the final.

The success at the Summer Graded Tournament was helped by the Charlotte, Amy and Tim’s medal-winning performances at the Badminton England national U17s circuit event at Thornaby, Teeside.

Charlotte and Amy picked up a hard fought doubles bronze, in the first event of the new season.

Tim also secured a bronze medal in the boys’ doubles.

Charlotte said: “I’m happy with us winning a bronze today.

Amy was excellent again and we were only a few points from winning gold.

“It’s a tricky event to prepare for because the previous season has only just finished, but it’s always fun to compete in and especially win medals.”