BARRY rugby star Lee Thomas is in Italy this week representing Wales in the Junior World Cup.

The 17-year-old left for Venice on Monday - but before going he spoke exclusively to the Barry and District News about his hopes for the future.

Buttrills resident Lee, who is on a rugby scholarship at New College, plays for Cardiff RFC first team, with big names such as Iestyn Harris and Rob Howley.

Now he is hoping his part in the Junior World Cup in Wales' Junior U-19s will lead to him turning professional in the next two or three years.

He said: "We've played five warm-up matches to go into the Junior World Cup, against Australia, New Zealand, England, France and Italy. It's been really good and now I'm looking forward to travelling to Venice. We're going to be there two weeks."

Lee is studying A-Levels in Welsh and biology. The former pupil of Ysgol Gyfun Gymraeg Glantaf, was talent-spotted for a scholarship by New College teacher Bob Newman, when Lee was playing at Cardiff RFC, aged just 13.

Now Lee is reaping the rewards; training five times a week for Cardiff and playing with some of Wales' top players.

He has had full support from his family, including his three sisters and one brother. And it has come as no surprise to them that Lee is doing so well - not only is Lee incredibly sporty, but his grandfather, Ray Cheney, once played for Cardiff.

Although it may be tough at times, with Lee having to train five times a week for Cardiff, he has not looked back once.

He said: "I'm absolutely loving it at the moment, and I can't wait to go to Venice.

"Hopefully, I'll turn professional in the next two or three years, and we'll see what happens after that."