The 16-year-old Tom gained his place on the GB Junior Men's Freestyle Kayak Team last December, following a two-day competition on the Thames at Maidenhead and Holme Pierrepoint, Nottingham.

Once selected for the team he took the decision immediately to upgrade his kayak to a Wavesport Project.

However, struggling to get to grips with the new boat for the first couple of months, he then reverted back to his original kayak, the Riot Flair, and is now confident that he will be able to perform his best against his European rivals.

Turner has been training hard at Holme Pierrepoint, taking part in national competitions every weekend as well as studying for his AS Levels at Clitheroe Royal Grammar School Sixth Form College.

Most recently he came first in the 18 and Under category Youth Freestyle competitions both at Teesside and Nene, where he has been offered sponsorship from Dagger UK Ltd.

He is grateful to Chris Templeman of Hicks Health and Fitness Club, who regularly oversees his training at the the gym.

They have also created a personal fitness programme, recognising the need to achieve both flexibility and stamina.

The teenager's prospects were recently boosted by a Sporting Excellence Grant of £150 from Ribble Valley Borough Council.

The event begins with the Opening Ceremony and official team training on July 21st, with the competition starting in earnest two days later.

Turner began kayaking at Clitheroe Canoe Club at the age of nine, where his dad, John still coaches.