ALEX Waterhouse, 15, from Horrabridge is celebrating after a successful trip to Dublin for the Irish Lead Climbing Championships this weekend.

Not only did he win the Youth A category, but he also saw off a strong senior field to be crowned the senior champion for 2012.

Alex went into the final level with Scotland's Robbie Phillips. In a tense final, Alex was the only climber to top the route and he thoroughly deserved his place on the top step of the podium.

He said: 'This is a great boost before the last European in Slonenia next weekend, I am looking forward to it!'

Alex trains at the Barn Climbing Centre in Milton Abbot.