Wallingford teenager Ethan Peel is on track to become Oxfordshire’s youngest qualified umpire – at the age of just 15.

Peel, who attends Wallingford School, is in the midst of a BTEC course in umpiring at Oxford Brookes University.

It is part of an initiative by the Institute of Cricket Umpires and Scorers to recruit young officials.

Peel has already completed the first two stages on the laws of the game, and field management, man management and duty of care.

Now he is tackling part three which involves spending a season on the field, taking charge of matches with officials assessing and monitoring him.

Peel has been officiating at youth matches – including county games.

And Oxfordshire training instructor Mick Warren is pleased with the progress he has been making.

After standing with the youngster for Oxfordshire Under 10s match against Dorset at Oxford Downs on Sunday, he said: “He is the youngest one to go through it.

“He is improving with every game and beginning to get recognised and get a rapport with the players.”

Peel is following in the footsteps of Freeland youngsters Russell Todd and Tom Lay, from Bartholomew School, Eynsham, and Chris Hicks, of Cokethorpe School, Witney, who qualified from the course as 16-year-olds 12 months ago.

If he completes the course successfuly, he will receive the BTEC certificate in January next year.

A new course starts in October, and has already attracted interest from a number of youngsters.

For more information go to umpires.tv or contact Warren on 01993 836083.