A year ago he was playing run-of-the-mill bridge at his local village club. Next month Paddy Lockwood will represent England in the game’s biggest event - the Bermuda Bowl.

The remarkable transformation from a Stansfield second team regular to a player with a coveted AS ranking and a host of major successes to his name has stunned the bridge world.

Paddy puts the transformation down to a visit to Specsavers 12 months ago which highlighted a highly unusual fault with his vision which meant he often confused different cards - notably he saw a 2 as an Ace - and vice versa.

“Ever since I had my eyes tested and started wearing glasses I have seen the cards for what they really are and now the game seems so simple,” he said.

“I am bowled over to be invited to represent England in the Bermuda Bowl where I look forward to continuing my successful partnership with Andrew Robson.”