A CHELMSFORD squash player helped Essex’s under-15 girls produced a battling display before losing out in the National Inter-Counties Championship final.

They were defeated by home team Yorkshire, at the prestigious finals in Pontefract.

The team included Eleanor White, from Chelmsford.

It was a valiant effort by the Essex team, who missed out on the biggest prize in county squash by the narrowest of margins, with Yorkshire taking the title 3-2.

“We’re all disappointed not to be bringing back the trophy to Essex but, equally, we have to be proud at our achievement,” said county coach Lauren Selby.

“The team gave everything and that’s all we can ever ask for.

“We finished third last season and now we are runners up, missing out by a single point.

“That’s great progress and I’m convinced we’ll improve, progress and grow as a squad.

“Essex squash is on a high right now and we will continue to drive forward.”

The other member of the Essex squad were Alice Green (Billericay), Elise Lazarus (Redbridge), Paige McCoy (Woodford), Ellie Hewes (Colchester), Piper Tatum (Colchester) and India Webb (Harwich).

They launched their assault on the national title back in October.

They came through two rounds of stiff competition to book their spot in Pontefract.