A Sidmouth College student has once again proved himself to be a formidable force in cross country competitions – and now he will go on to represent Devon.

Year eight student Sam Pyne took sixth place in the under-13s, 3,000 metres, last Sunday, completing the event in a splendid time of 10 minutes 23.

Running for Exeter Harriers, Sam was the first Devon runner to finish and will now go on to compete at the National Cross Country Championships after Christmas.

A school spokesman said: “This is a fantastic and well-deserved achievement. Sam has worked really hard on his fitness and training over the last few months. We all congratulate him and wish him the every best of good fortune at the nationals.”