A high-school handball team from Richmond are celebrating being crowned National Champions.

The under-13 boys’ team from Hampton High, Hanworth Road, had beaten team across the UK in the lead up to their final match against Wellington School, Greater Manchester in Worcester June 18.

Goals from twins Ajay and Bijay Purja Pun scored the team’s final win against their opponents, putting them in the lead 10-8.

Captain Ajay, 13, from Hampton, said: “It was just a great feeling to know that we had beaten 1500 schools from across the country to win such a prestigious event.

“I can’t say it was all down to me because my teammates were amazing. The defence was extremely strong and we have a great goalkeeper as well.

The boys had previously won two regional heats in Richmond borough and at the London Youth Games to earn a place among the country’s elite.

“I think the main reason we ended winning in Richmond, then in London and now at the national finals is because we have amazing team spirit,” added the captain.

“We are all really good friends outside of handball and that spirit helped to carry us to victory.”

Hampton High pupils have worked hard together in the lead up to the final match after being overwhelmed at their wins earlier in the season.

Richard Bucknall, Head of PE at Hampton High said: “To come away winners at the national handball final with 1500 competing schools is truly a fantastic achievement from this team.

“The school would like to say a big thank you to our wonderfully supportive families who made the long journey to Worcester to cheer on the team.”