ALISTER WALKER'S stock is rising fast after the Wycliffe youngster scooped the British under-23 championship for the first time.

His stunning performance has been heralded by his delighted coach Dave Morrish.

"The level of squash he played was world top 20 and this should really boost his confidence for his forthcoming tournament in San Francisco.

"Alister is without doubt the best person I have ever had the privilege of working with - his attitude and application are absolutely superb," said Morrish. Walker's passage to the final was pretty comfortable, and he was never really stretched.

In the semi-finals he beat Darryl Selby who was Alister's team mate in the England under -19 team, which won the world junior championships in 2000.

In the final he was up against another member of that team, Phil Barker. Both these players were ranked above Alister in the under 19's.

The opening game was certainly arduous, with both players working each other all over the court.

Walker had five game balls to take the game, but eventually lost it 11-10 (new international scoring system is point per rally up to 11) with an unforced error, after half an hour.

Walker bounced back to win the next game 11-3 and continued this form in the third and fourth games to win 10-11 11-3 11-2 11-4. Walker is currently ranked number 51 in the World.