Matthew Hurst became the youngest winner of the Durham County Restricted Badminton Championship Finals for 20 years, but has nothing to show for his achievement.

The 17-year-old from Thorpe Larches, Stockton, wasn't awarded either a trophy or a medal to mark his win at the Gateshead International Stadium at the weekend.

And, as could be expected, he isn't very happy.

He said: "After winning a county competition you want something to show for it, especially being one of the youngest winners."

Matthew, a member of the World Class junior squad, explained how ex-coach, Peter Higman was awarded the trophy after winning the event but hasn't given the cup back since.

"About two years ago my old coach won the competition but he hasn't given the trophy back to the organisers. It's supposed to look good and really nice but I wouldn't know because I haven't seen it!"

Mr Higman, however, defended himself explaining how a recent disaster has turned his life upside down which meant the trophy became a low priority.

"He'll get the trophy as soon as possible. I've had a house fire so the trophy is in storage in Newcastle. In the circumstances the last thing on my mind is the trophy.

"I was thrilled to bits when Matthew won because I used to be his coach from when he was eight.

"He's up there with the top ten in the country for his age - he deserved to win."

Doreen Hogg, County match secretary, explained that despite the trophy belonging to the organisers, they have left the matter in the hands of Matthew and Mr Higman.

"A lot of trophies go missing," she said. "We used to have a presentation night but that's gone by the wayside. All we can do is remind them (trophy holders) and hopefully they will return them."

As well as the singles title Matthew finished as runner-up in the pairs alongside Kevin Raper and what makes Matthew's success even more remarkable is the fact he was struck down with glandular fever for two months during the summer.

"For the first month I couldn't do a thing and after that I was only able to play once a week or so.

"But since then I've worked really hard in training and its paid off."

After receiving a bye in the first round, Matthew defeated Adam Tingle 15-5, 15-5 in the quarters, Gareth Dingle 15-5, 15-4 in the semis and Andy King in the final 15-8, 15-6.

Commenting on the scorelines, which imply he won the tournament without too much difficulty, Matthew said: "I expected to win the first games. I was seeded number one so I was supposed to win, really."

His win made up for last year's disappointment when he finished as runner-up to Stan Johnson, who has since retired, leaving the way open for Matthew to claim the winner's trophy or so he thought