FORMER Commonwealth and European badminton champion Helen Troke has been putting pupils from St John’s Primary School through their paces in Weymouth. Troke, along with her sister and ex-international player Catherine, told the year five and six students that she is looking for an Olympic badminton star of the future before teaching them some basic skills and encouraging them to attend the Talent ID Day at Redlands on April 26.

Helen said: “The kids really enjoyed having a go at badminton and after one short session they were convinced that everyone can play, which really boosted their confidence and enthusiasm.”

International player Tracey Hallam will join the Troke sisters at the Talent ID Day. She represented Great Britain at both the 2004 and 2008 Olympics.

Sports centre development manager Caroline Smith said: “We’re encouraging children to remind their parents to come on April 26. It is free and a once in a lifetime opportunity to meet and get coaching from some of England’s top badminton players.”

Following the talent day at Redlands, a new badminton academy will be set up to deliver coaching at all levels for any children who wish to play on a weekly basis.

A fast-track twice-weekly coaching session will be established for children who show raw talent or natural ability for the sport and they will work towards selection for Team GB at the 2016 Olympics.

n There will be two sessions at the Talent ID Day on April 26 with one starting at 1pm and the other at 3pm.

No experience of badminton is necessary but children have to be accompanied by an adult at all times.

To register call Redlands on 813113.