A PERFECT ping-pong performance from a Tavistock twenty-something saw Devon clinch victory at the top of the premier league last month.

James Wightman joined four other table tennis aces to represent Devon at the National County Championships in Grantham on March 17 and 18.

The five fought hard to secure their place in the top division —and ended up winning the league!

Their fantastic victory won them the prestigious Harrower Cup as top county and individual plaques for their own superb performances.

James said: 'We are thrilled to have won the cup — we really didn't expect it so it came as a great surprise.

'We were most concerned not to be relegated, so to come away as league champions for the year is a great achievement — and one that the team thoroughly deserves.

'It's also stopped us getting a ribbing from the old team who won the trophy twice — I've been in this team for about five years and they kept reminding us we weren't living up to the standards they'd set!'

In fact, this is the third time that Devon have lifted the Harrower Cup — they also won it in 1993 and 1996 and despite an eight year spell without it, they have always managed to remain in the highest division.

Now, James and the rest of the team are planning to keep the cup within their grasp: 'Now we've got it we shan't give it up without a fight - we'll be back to defend our title next year!'

Devon Junior team, which includes Tavistock College's Sam Bruty, also managed to stay in the top division, despite being threatened with relegation at the start of the season.