ARCHER Alex Body has finished another incredibly successful outdoor season.

The Benfleet-based 15-year-old ended the campaign as number one in Essex for his age-group.

The Appleton School pupil obtained nine junior master bowmen scores and 11 master bowmen scores.

And, on top of that, he won the under-16 southern counties championships and is the current under-16 fita southern county champion.

Alex is also the fita Essex field champion and is now celebrating after being offered another year in Great Britain’s academy squad, much to the delight of his proud parents.

“It’s a great way to end what has been another great year for Alex,” said his mother, Jo.

“It’s been hard, with hundreds of miles travelled throughout England taking part in competitions and sometimes getting up at 4am in the morning on a Sunday to travel to the competitions.

“He started at the academy last September when, from 500 applications, he was one of 20 archers to be offered a place on the Southern Academy.

“Training takes places across one weekend every month in Gloucestershire which adds to the travelling but it’s fantastic for his progress.”

Alex must also carry out a set amount of gym work every week and shoot 1,000 arrows which are all logged and returned to his academy coach.

But the hard work certainly seems to be paying off as Alex finished fifth in the outdoor nationals back in July and achieved scores high enough to be considered for next year’s Commonwealth Youth Games in Samoa. Alex has rocketed up the standings despite being self funded.

His local professional archery shop, Perris Academy, offer support with equipment and range facilities.

But he is keen to secure sponsorship and also a trainer to help with his strength and conditioning work.

For more details, or to express an interest in helping, email paul-jo.body@tesco.net