Cumbrian badminton star Lauren Smith tasted victory at the YONEX Belgian International.

The Cumbrian and partner Marcus Ellis claimed the mixed doubles title in the tournament.

Carlisle-born Smith and Ellis lived up to their top seed billing as they prevailed in Leuven.

They got the better of Danish pair Mikkel Mikkelsen and Rikke Soby in the final.

A 21-18, 21-15 victory saw them at the top of the podium.

It was the English duo's first tournament win since the 2020 Thailand Masters.

Double Olympian Smith, from Longtown, and Ellis had to go the distance to make it through the round of 16, eventually defeating Scottish team Adam Pringle and Rachel Andrew 21-14 19-21 21-14.

The world no29-ranked team then had to come back from a game down to beat Danish pair Mads Vestergaard and Christine Busch in the semi-final.

After victory in the final, Ellis spoke of his delight at their success, coming after the 34-year-old has fought his way back from hip surgery.

“We are delighted to have won this week,” said Ellis, who made his international debut in Belgium back in 2009, on badmintonengland.co.uk.

“This tournament holds a lot of fond memories for me.

“Coming back 14 years later makes me feel very old but also proud I can still play and win at this level.

"We hope to use this to give us confidence leading into the very busy competition block through October and November.”