NEWHAM SWORDS fencer Alex Savin made history as he became the first British foil fencer to win a major international competition in France. Savin, 14, saw off the challenge of 265 fencers from 23 countries to win the prestigious CEP Fencing Marathon Worl

NEWHAM SWORDS fencer Alex Savin made history as he became the first British foil fencer to win a major international competition in France.

Savin, 14, saw off the challenge of 265 fencers from 23 countries to win the prestigious CEP Fencing Marathon World Championship whilst representing England in Paris.

On his way to victory, the youngster defeated the French, Dutch and Spanish under-15 national champions.

An impressed England manager, Ray Stafford, commented: "It was a brilliant result, and a triumph for skill, fitness and mental strength."

This magnificent achievement follows on from Savin winning the Premier League Foil Series last year, when he went undefeated. He also represented Newham when they retained the London Youth Games fencing title.

Within the last month, he has also achieved two top 20 and a top 10 finish in national senior events, despite still being only a teenager.

He is now setting his sights on the Eton Leon Paul Junior Series, the Invicta Senior Open, the London Youth Games and the English Youth Championships in the coming months.

Coach, Pierre Harper, added: "Alex has worked really hard to achieve outstanding results and the dedication and effort that he puts into his training is paying dividends.