A young hot shot from Keighley is aiming high in his bid to join the clay pigeon shooting elite.

Martin Shellabear, 15, from Harden Grove, Long Lee, took up the sport just six months ago. Since then the sharp shooting pupil at Parkside School, Cullingworth, hasn't looked back as he continues to shatter the competition.

In his first ever event at the Broughton Hall Game Show, near Skipton, Martin took second prize in the Junior Class. He has since gone on to win competitions in Derbyshire, Staffordshire and York, competing against both junior and senior shooters.

Martin, who is in Year 10 at Parkside, is following in the footsteps of dad Mick, who has been shooting for many years. He said: "When I was nine I used to go out with my dad when he was clay pigeon shooting and it has gone from there.

"Dad has given me a lot of encouragement and I've been told by a coach that I have got natural ability. In this sport you have to have naturally good hand-to-eye co-ordination.

"My aim for this year is to try and get into the Yorkshire team, I will be going to all the selection shoots."

Martin is currently a B classified marksman - a rank he hopes to improve until he reaches the highest classification of AAA.

As a result of Martin's achievements, dedication and enthusiasm in the sport, he has received a sponsorship deal from Richard Metcalfe Developments from West Morton, Keighley.

Mr Metcalfe said: "I have followed Martins progress over the last six months and was very keen to help."

Martin added: "The sponsorship will pay for my entry fees at competitions and I would like to thank Richard because it is a huge help."

He also thanked Spence, Arthur and Marian at the Trawden Clay Pigeon Shooting Club where he is a member.