Two nine-year-old brothers from Broughshane have been selected for the Northern Ireland judo pathway squad after winning gold at the recent Northern Ireland Judo Championships in Londonderry.

Hunter and Crixus Crawford, who compete as 'the Vikings', are among the youngest members of the squad. The pathway programme prepares judokas for potential selection for Commonwealth and Olympic Games representation.

A spokesperson for the boys said the selection followed a season of strong performances. 'It is a great honour and privilege to even be considered let alone be selected for their country,' the spokesperson said.

The twins have also been selected to compete in the Northern Ireland Schools Championships at Foyle Arena in Londonderry on 11 October.

Their first training session with the pathway squad took place on 26 September and was led by national team coaching staff.

The boys train with County Antrim Judo under coach Danny Nolan.