A YOUNG Tavistock footballer fulfilled his dreams of playing professionally this week when he signed for Torquay United.

Striker Ben Camara, an 18-year-old who used to play for Tavistock Jets, found out on Tuesday that he had landed a one-year contract with the third division club.

Ben said: ?I?m absolutely delighted. I?ve always wanted to be a professional footballer. It?s been my lifelong ambition.?

The former Tavistock College student signed as an apprentice for Torquay two years ago, after he and some other young hopefuls were spotted by the team?s coach while playing for Elm United.

He made his professional league debut at Plainmoor last month when he came on as substitute against Scunthorpe, but has yet to play a full 90 minutes for the Gulls.

Ben said his apprenticeship had been tough but worth all the effort.

?It?s been a long two years, but I?m just thrilled to have made it.?

His mother, Kate, said: ?It has been a long slog for him and I?m so proud of what he?s achieved.?

John Follett, who was chairman of Tavistock Jets when Ben played for them, said: ?He has been one of the best young footballers to come out of this area for a long, long time.

?I?m delighted that success has come to such a genuine, honest and pleasant young man. I wish him all the very best.?