SHAUN Woodward, MP for St Helens South, welcomed back all nine victorious young athletes who were selected for Great Britain's Squad in the World Dragon Boat Racing Championships.

At the beginning of this month, Shaun Woodward, helped 15-year-old Jon Coventry raise £300 to enable him to participate in these Championships taking place in Philadelphia.

Despite competing against a number of professional teams, Jon came back with the Great Britain team clutching two silver medals, five bronze medals and winning the accolade of being in the top four Dragon boat racing teams in the world.

On their return, Shaun Woodward commented: "I am thrilled and delighted to welcome back all our young athletes.

"Not only have they been excellent ambassadors for Dragon Boat Racing, but they have been exceptional ambassadors for St Helens and the UK on the international stage.

"We must encourage such drive, commitment and dedication in all our young people, in whatever craft they choose, and applaud such achievement, because they are an example to us all.

"I look forward to working with the Dragon Boat Racing Club so that we can build upon this success in the future."

St Helens competitors in the Great Britain Squad included Jon Coventry, Christopher Rigby, Stephen Graham, Waimond Ip, Andrew Din, William Din, Christopher Rudin, Jenny Rudin and Louisa David.

Jon Coventry won two bronze medals with the Junior Squad.

Team Coach is Dave Bangs, teacher at Rainford High School.