NORTH Yorkshire badminton ace Matt Clare is closing in on his dream of a professional career.

The 17-year-old Ripon Grammar School student is the number one U17 doubles player in England and has added a European Championship title to his roll of honour.

He won a gold medal in the U17 men’s doubles with partner Ben Lane and a silver in the team event for England in Ankara, Turkey.

Clare and Lane beat tough Danish opposition in the semi-finals to earn a place in the final against a Russian duo, who they beat 21-15, 21-17.

“They were really big and powerful whereas we are quite small and skillful,” said Clare.

“We knew it was going to be difficult.

“I’d never been in that situation before and I was very nervous, so it was quite a surprise to win.”

His next major competition is the World Championships in Malaysia during the Easter holidays, where he will play for England U19s.