Teenager James Eaton has just completed a remarkable first competitive season — winning 12 trophies in three leagues.

Now his coach and mentor, Paul Linfield, hopes the 15 year-old’s achievements will be recognised by the Guinness Book Of Records.

Paul, who has been working and playing with the teenager, told Mansfield 103.2: “He is very promising.”

James, of Selston, attends Selston High School and is based at Jacksdale Miners’ Welfare Table Tennis Club.

Playing for Jacksdale MW 3rds in Division Two of the Derby and District League, he became Derby junior champion and has been asked to represent Derby.

In the Mansfield and District League, James claimed six honours while playing for Jacksdale MW B in Division Two.

He became individual champion, doubles champion with Paul, won the Brian Roddis Trophy, played in the Jacksdale MW B team that won the Division Two title, was the Mansfield handicap winner, and was also runner-up in the mixed doubles.

In the Worksop and District League, playing for Worksop Miners’ Welfare Harriers J in Division Three, James was individual champion, doubles champion with Paul, junior runner-up, part of the Harriers J team that finished runners-up in the division, and was team handicap runner-up.

Paul, a coach for more than 40 years, is also trying to encourage more people of all ages, from eight to 80, to take up the sport of table tennis.

Coaching co-ordinator for the Mansfield and District League, he told Mansfield 103.2 : “I work with people just for fun or if they want to go the whole way. I have recently been into schools, leisure centres, and u3a groups to try to promote the sport.

“The social aspect is great. It is good for your fitness, builds confidence and is not expensive to play.

“For older people there are also mental health benefits with regard to Alzheimer’s as it gets your brain working and focused.”

Paul coaches at Ravenshead Leisure Centre on Tuesday and Wednesday evenings, from 7pm-9pm. Specialist coaching is also available at Clipstone Parish Hall, from 7pm-9pm.

For more details contact Paul on 07596 354306 or email [email protected]