A MEMBER of Crediton Squash Club is fast making a name for himself after pulling off some outstanding victories in recent tournaments.

Mike Harris (22), Crediton Squash No 1 and professional coach, is now ranked in the world top 300 after wins in The Queens Club PSA tournament last weekend.

Mike recently won the Devon Championship title after he beat Richard Birks 3-1 in the semi finals and went on to take the title in London by beating the No 1 seed Ben Coleman (World Ranked 150) 3 -1 in the final.

From Cheriton Bishop but currently residing in Bristol, Mike recently graduated from the University of the West of England in Philosophy and History. The university is one of the most prestigious in the country for squash players.

The former Exeter School pupil says he is pleased with his recent wins.

"I have played squash in tournaments since I was nine and took up the sport because my parents play. I have been in the top three in England through age groups since then and represented England at Under 19's.

"I am hoping to represent Great Britain in the World University championships next summer but will next be competing at Challenger 5 tournaments in Colwyn Bay, Wales and Gdansk, Poland.

Mike is sponsored by Karakal squash equipment. He plays regularly for Crediton Men's First Team in the Devon League and also provides a coaching service at the Lords Meadow Leisure Centre every Monday.

Crediton Squash president, Perry Warren, was full of praise for Mike.

The 79-year-old said: "I think Mike has tremendous potential if he keeps his enthusiasm up.

"He is top in Devon at the moment and is sure to go a lot higher.

"It is a joy to watch him play. In three games recently I saw him lose just three points in total."

Phil Hancock, chairman, added: "With a world top 300 ranking Mike our Devon Champion has brought skills to Crediton never witnessed in the the last two decades.