A DARLINGTON teenager became the youngest person to ever win a long-running tennis tournament at the weekend.

Ellie Tweddle triumphed during the ladies’ tournament at the New Blackwell Tennis Club on Saturday, June 25.

The 13-year-old Barnard Castle School pupil took on much older competitors and the tournament’s reigning champion to emerge victorious.

A keen sportswoman, Ellie has been playing tennis from an early age, encouraged by her parents who have both played at county level.

Her father, Martyn Tweddle, said: “It was quite nerve-wracking to watch her play but Ellie’s used to tournaments and just gets on with it – she went out there and did battle.

“She’s absolutely over the moon after winning, we thought she may take it next year but weren’t expecting it this year.

“Her fitness levels are unbelievable for a girl her age but we’re trying to make sure she doesn’t get fed up.

“She plans to just continue improving and having fun while she’s doing it.”

A spokeswoman for Barnard Castle School said: “We are delighted for Ellie, it’s a fantastic achievement.

“We believe she has tremendous potential.

“Her commitment to all sports will hopefully aid her development in the long run.

“We hope we can continue to provide a support structure that enables her to achieve her goals both academically and on the tennis court.”