Total recall as Josh wins memory prize
A Black Country whizz-kid has proved he has the best memory in Britain after beating more than 700 children to win an inaugural national competition.
Brainy Josh Clarke scooped the first Junior Memory Champion prize by remembering a range of facts and figures about London Zoo. The 11-year-old pupil who goes Park Hall Junior School, in Walsall, was one of 18 finalists who were put to the test during the contest's finale at the weekend.
It was Josh, of Orchard Hills, Walsall, who demonstrated his phenomenal skills, winning two of the challenges and posting impressive scores.
He had to carry out a number of memory tests at London Zoo, recalling information about numbers, words, faces and names.
Josh managed to remember a sequence of 27 random words, scored a near perfect 39 out of 40 on the faces test, and memorise 38 digits in five minutes.
The delighted youngster said: "I was really happy but shocked to have won.
"Everyone is really happy for me."
Among his prizes were a trophy and certificate, and he has adopted a gorilla at the zoo for a year..
Deputy head at Park Hall Junior School, Ashley Winters, said: "The Junior Memory Championship has been a fantastic opportunity for Josh to discover a hidden talent.
"He always applies himself quietly and effectively in all tasks and this was no exception.
"He should be very proud of this fabulous achievement."
Josh was one of 18 finalists from across the UK having beaten off more than 700 children in a series of on-line memory tests.
Since September the children have had to follow a specially written training programme, preparing to take part in the first national contest of its kind organised through The Learning Skills Foundation.
At London Zoo, the youngsters were tested by former World Memory Champion Jonathan Hancock. He said: "I was blown away by the children's performances.
"It was fantastic to see them testing themselves under pressure – and having a great time doing it."
What Josh had to remember
To win Josh had to: Memorise facts about London Zoo and answer a series of questions such as its history, number of animals and vets.
He had to remember a sequence of 27 random words including 'bottle,' 'dress,' 'cat,' and 'boat.'
Also he had to score a near perfect 39 out of 40 on the faces test by remembering names to go with a selection of random photos.
Josh also had to remember 38 digits in five minutes.