Ryan Clunie, 16, recently won the Scottish Schools Under 16 doubles title, as well as triumphing in both the singles and doubles competitions in the Under 17 North East Restricted tournament.

He already attends practice sessions with the local performance squad at Portlethen and has received an invitation to join the Scottish Under 19 squad in Glasgow.

Ryan has a £1,000 sponsorship deal with Aberdeen-based specialist LA Recruitment which will help to cover the cost of the national training sessions in Glasgow, held every weekend over the summer.

Ryan will also train with the Scottish elite squad in Larbert in August.

The teenager, who is in 5th-year at Westhill Academy, has been playing badminton competitively since he was a pupil at Westhill Primary School.

Ryan's mum, Angie Clunie said : "We are absolutely delighted and are very grateful for LA Recruitment for their financial support, which will mean Ryan can take up the offer of attending training sessions with the National Squad in Glasgow every Sunday between July and September."

"The whole family plays badminton so Ryan has had a racquet in his hand since he was a toddler but the offer to train with the national squad - which is invite only – is a reflection on his ability."

"Living in Aberdeenshire means the cost of travelling is expensive on top of badminton fees and equipment to allow Ryan to compete at this level, so this sponsorship will make a real difference."

LA Recruitment director Alistair Reid, said: "We were pleased to be able to support Ryan financially and help him to reach his goal of playing badminton for Scotland."