THE commitment of golfer Bradley Cattermole has paid off after he won a place in the Essex Golf Union squad, but the youngster from Halstead knows the hard work is only just starting as he looks to nail down a spot in the county team this year.

The 13-year-old Ramsey Academy pupil is a member of Colne Valley Golf Club and holds a handicap of 19.

He was invited to attend trials for the Essex county coaching squad at the Warren last month after impressive performances as a junior at Colne Valley and has now earned a place in the Essex 12 to 14s squad for 2018.

His next step will be to attend an initial four-day training camp in April where Essex coaches will monitor progress and make decisions on who will get calls to represent their county in 2018.

Cattermole, who has been playing golf since the age of five, is tutored at Colne Valley by Coastal Academy coach Scott Rusbridge.

Bradley's mother, Heidi, said: "He did well at the trials and takes things in his stride, but he couldn't believe it when he got accepted - it is a big thing for a young golfer to be selected like that.

"He is realistic and knows he has to keep working hard and being committed, but he has been like that for years at Colne Valley.

"They offer extensive coaching for the young golfers with the Coastal Golfing Academy programme and they get the chance to compete against other clubs.

"He has had to get used to working hard, but he is willing."