Dodd steps up to top level

GARRY DODD is set to become a Premier Division player this season after leaving the Guernsey team to sign on for Kingfisher Reading in the National League.

It means that the 22-year-old five-time island champion will be competing at the top level of men's British team table tennis, a step higher than the Guernsey team is currently in.

Dodd, pictured, has been Sarnian number one for a number of years as they have enjoyed their best period in the National League, including 2009's promotion and continued survival in the second tier.

But, as Dodd explained, he feels he is ready for a new challenge after spending three years at university playing regularly on the national Grand Prix circuit.

'I have spent a couple of years in Division One so wanted to play at a higher level and also give somebody else the chance to step into my shoes,' he said.