BUDDING Burnley starlet Richard Chaplow today capped a memorable year by signing professional terms.

The 18-year-old midfielder was not due to complete his scholarship until next summer - but has now been rewarded for a stunning series of displays for the Clarets.

Chaplow only made his debut at Norwich in April, and still has just five first team starts to his name.

But goals in pre-season, against Leeds United, followed by his first senior strike against Crewe two weeks ago, has set the seal on a remarkable rise through the youth team ranks.

And Clarets boss Stan Ternent has now swooped to snap up the Accrington-born teenager on a three-year deal that runs until summer 2006.

Delighted Chaplow said: "I've supported the club since I was young and I've been here since I was eight years old .

"It's been great to be involved in the first team and it's something I've wanted to do all my life.

"The last six months have been like a whirlwind. I'd been working hard and playing in the reserves and when I was first called up to the squad last season, it was a dream come true for me.

"The gaffer called me in and said that he wanted to reward me, so I'm delighted to sign and I'm looking forward to spending the rest of my years here.

"They are a great set of lads at Burnley and they've all helped me settle in. Now it's like I'm one of them!"