TOM Wells, 17, started the British Windsurfing Association’s Professional Slalom Series in smashing style.

Starting in Marizon, Cornwall, he was competing in the professional fleet alongside well-known local Kevin Greenslade who finished in overall second place.

With only one other under-21, Wells achieved an excellent result and finished seventh overall.

Wells, who is sponsored by Puravida, Ross Williams and the Official Test Centre said: “All the sponsors were extremely pleased with my result and I’m very encouraged by it.”

He followed it up last weekend at the Weymouth and Portland National Sailing Academy, finishing first under-21 and ninth overall, to maintain his seventh-place ranking.

Wells, pictured, added: “The weekend was awesome because of the very strong winds.

“Using my new sails from Ross Williams (who won the Portland event) was an added highlight.”

Wells is eager for the next professional competition, which takes place at Aberdovey, Wales.