Dream comes true for talented Luke

Luke Dongean: England call

RISING badminton star Luke Donegan is flying the flag for England this weekend.

The Failsworth School pupil is in Denmark, competing in the prestigious Danish Cup — his first competitive appearance for his country.

The youngster is thrilled to make his debut at the highest level: “I am very excited to be playing for England,” said the 12 year old.

“I can’t believe I am getting the chance to play. It’s a dream come true.”

Luke trained with England in the summer and impressed the coaches to earn a call-up. He will meet some of the best young talents in Europe.

Luke was nine when he took up the sport at South Failsworth Primary School. He has been a member at Rochdale Badminton Club for three years, and has also trained at Bolton Performance Centre.

He has taken the Lancashire under-13s title for the past two years and earlier this year reached the under-15s final in both singles and doubles.

His family has a gift for the game: his sister Megan (14) represents Lancashire under-15s, as does his cousin Daniel (13). Cousins Katie (11) and Mark (16) play for Lancashire at under-13s and under-17s level respectively.