PADIHAM archer Paul Kelly is aiming for a dream world double.

In the last seven days, he has claimed the IFAA (International Field Archery Association) World and European championships in a competition in Clackmannanshire, Scotland.

And next month he takes his talents to Australia where he seeks to complete a world 'double' by winning the FITA (Fderation Internationale de Tir L'Arc) championships in Canberra.

The fact that he is making the trip to the southern hemisphere is a big boost for Kelly.

"It was the fifth time on the trot that I had won the European title, but the first for the world title," explained Kelly.

"The IFAA is held every two years, but the last time I went for it was in 1994 when it was held in Bury St Edmunds in Suffolk.

"Two years ago the competition was in South Africa and before that in New Zealand and, with the sport being essentially self-funded, the price of competing in these events is sometimes prohibitive."

However, he has managed to find the funding to go to Australia with wife Helen, who herself came third in the competition in Scotland, and who travels 'Down Under' as the British team captain.

"I'll have to be on best behaviour as Helen is in charge," smiled Kelly.

"But as far as the money goes it has been hard work because we need to raise £2,000 to ensure that we could go.

"We have received a couple of donations, saved up some money ourselves and fortunately my kit sponsors, Belgian company Greenhorn, who provide the bows, Japanese firm Shbuya, who make sights, and the Doo-Sung Corporation of Korea, who make the arrows, have also been very helpful.

"After other attempts which have brought no success it is just great to be going and have a chance of winning both of the sport's federations world titles."

Paul has been shooting for more than 20 years and began coaching Helen, who works as a health visitor at Longridge Health Centre near Preston, 10 years ago with tremendous results.

They practice together at a local club, Oakleaf Bowman, in Read near their home.

Paul works as the merchandiser in the north east area for Morris Furniture Group.