Cumbrian badminton player Lauren Smith has ended one of her long-standing doubles partnerships.

The Longtown star will no longer compete in women's doubles alongside Chloe Birch.

Smith will instead focus all her attention on mixed doubles where she plays alongside on and off-court partner Marcus Ellis.

The 32-year-old has competed alongside Birch for several years, winning silver medals at the Commonwealth Games and European Games and Championships.

The duo have won tournaments together in France, Belgium, the Czech Republic, Azerbaijan and Ukraine.

News and Star: Smith, right, and Birch after winning silver at the 2022 Commonwealth GamesSmith, right, and Birch after winning silver at the 2022 Commonwealth Games (Image: PA)

They were also a Team GB pairing in the 2020 Olympics.

A statement from Badminton England said: "Badminton England can confirm that the women’s doubles partnership between Lauren Smith and Chloe Birch has now come to an end

"Lauren has made the decision to focus on one event moving forwards, continuing with the mixed doubles alongside Marcus Ellis.

"Both Lauren and Chloe continue to be fully supported by the GB and Badminton England’s World Class Performance Programme through our medical team, comprising Chief Medical Officer, physiotherapist, sport psychologist and strength and conditioning coaches."