BOLTON sailor Sam Platt added to his reputation as one of the top young talents in Europe with the best result of his career.

The teenager finished a super seventh place against the top senior sailors on the continent at the European Championships in Italy.

In a new partnership with Vince Hoarey, the Bolton School sixth form student took his career to a new high with the performance in the Fireball Class at Lake Garda.

A member of Bolton Sailing Club, Platt took up the sport 10 years ago after being encouraged by his dad and started entering competitions when he was just 13 and trains with his twin, Michael, most weekends.

Sam is now looking ahead to continue his progress in the sport at the World Championships 420 Class next year.