The ice is a family affair to Deakan Fielder

The former Phoenix School pupil, who now attends the Okanagan Ice Hockey Academy in Swindon, will travel to Spain for the competition in April.

The young defenceman was plucked for stardom after impressing in matches for the South-West regional team, as well as England's under-16s squad, earlier in the season.

Deakan's father, David Fielder, appeared for the Great Britain under-16s team back in 1991 – and was naturally delighted to hear of his son's selection for the national side.

The proud father said: "We heard the news by email a few days ago and the whole house erupted. It was a big surprise, but he has worked so hard for this over the years.

"The tournament takes place in Madrid this April, and I'm hoping to get the whole family over to Spain.

"It should be the first step towards a long career in the game for him and hopefully, to achieve his ambition to play for Telford Tigers.

"The fact that I played for GB at his age makes it all the more special.

"I remember what a huge honour it was to represent my country, and I can't wait for Deakan to experience that."

The 15-year-old, who moved to Swindon last August, is a full-time pupil at the Okanagan Academy, which also allows him to train on a daily basis.

Mr Fielder has paid over £22,000 in school fees to allow Deakan to follow his dream – and is appealing for sponsors to help with rising costs.

He added: "Deakan has the potential to be a great defenceman, but the cost of funding travel and school fees is huge. Even playing for Great Britain is a big cost in itself.

"We have to fund every part of his travel, equipment and daily training. That adds up over the years and to have some help with that would be wonderful."

Any local company that is interesting in sponsoring Deakan should contact Jackie Fielder on 07712 820 488, or e-mail djfielder@outlook.com.