THE top young players in the county were acknowledged at the Junior Badminton Awards.

Achievements from those aged six to 18 were recognised by the Oxfordshire Badminton Association.

Among the highlighlights from the last year were the county’s under 12 team.

They became only the fifth Oxfordshire side to qualify for the National Shires League Finals.

Special awards were also handed out at the ceremony, hosted by Abingdon and Witney College.

Holly Craig and Adam Burden were highlighted for the best performances at the Oxfordshire County Tournament.

David Soanes was named team manager of the year, while the coaching award went to Dave Bolus for his long-standing commitment to junior set-up.

The Jean Kloos award went to Gary Cook for his significant contributions to junior badminton over the last year.

Andrew Broadhurst, from Oxfordshire Badminton, said: “It was great to see so many players, parents and supporters coming together to celebrate the successes of our juniors and to recognise the dedication of those who help make this happen.”