Abingdon School's William Fotherby is dreaming of going to the 2012 Olympics after representing Great Britain at the European Fencing Championships in Rovigo, Italy.

With competitors from 32 countries taking part at the event, the 16-year-old, from Watlington, finished 47th in the sabre.

Ranked third in the UK under 17 age group, Fotherby (pictured right) was selected for the Great Britain team following some outstanding performances in competitions throughout the year.

He said: "I really hope to carry on improving and getting results.

"The European championships is the biggest competition I have done so far.

"My dream is to be in the Olympics, and 2012 would be my best chance. But there is so much to do before then.

"The world championships are next year, so I am just taking everything one step at a time."