A 14-YEAR-OLD boy has become one of only ten kayakers under the age of 16 to qualify for a 3-star white water certification.

Cameron Forry, a member of Eastwood and East Kilbride Canoe Club, received the British Canoeing 3 Star Award after passing stringent tests.

Eastwood boy Cameron had been waiting impatiently to sit the test, but wasted no time in securing it only three months after he reached the minimum age limit.

The day-long assessment, held at Glasgow's Pinkston Watersports Centre, required candidates to deal with deep moving water, surf-sized waves and capsizing situations. Cameron also had to analyse weather conditions, display first aid skills and cross rivers in conditions that can easily upturn the kayak.

Cameron was also assessed on his ability to rescue other paddlers and prevent their equipment from being swept downstream in an emergency.

His success comes after being named 'Best Improver of the Year' at the club's 2014 Annual Dinner. Mother Sandra and father Tony were ecstatic.

"We’re very proud of what Cameron has achieved and at just 14. Sometimes these days it can be a real worry having a teenager, but Cameron is a very grounded boy with a broad group of interests and activities. Besides his love of kayaking, he is an RAF Cadet, a Scout Explorer and a bagpiper. He’s very unassuming and I don’t think he quite realises just what he has done,” Sandra said.

She went on to thank the club for their support.

“Cameron, Tony and I want to thank all the amazing members at EEKCC who have been so supportive of Cameron and of course the Club’s SCA Coaches who gave Cameron so much help in achieving this.”

With members active in canoeing as well as sea and river kayaking , the club runs regular trips around Scotland.

EEKCC Club Chairman Gavin Howat praised the example the youngster set for his peers.

"Cameron is a great example of what young paddlers can achieve, if they are prepared to commit themselves," he said.