Horserider Alice Thompson is dreaming of Olympic glory after being chosen for a national team at the age of just 12.
The pupil from Westfield School in Gosforth, Newcastle, was picked for the British dressage team taking on 12 other European countries after impressing selectors at the British Dressage Championships, in Solihull.
Having been riding since she was five, Alice's skills attracted the attention of British dressage coach Ian Woodhead, who is helping to train her.
Alice, of Coppy Lodge, Beamish, County Durham, is hoping the international tournament at Addington, Buckinghamshire, will be the first of many, with her ultimate ambition being to ride in the Olympics.
She said: "I'll probably be one of the youngest, if not the youngest, in the international event. But it was the same for me at Solihull, and I'll be trying my best."
Alice's equestrian exploits are supported by parents Gavin, a company managing director, and Jocelyn, a nurse, as well as sister Lucy, 10.
Mrs Thompson said: "People ask me what I do to make her do it but I don't really do anything. We fund it and drive round the country, but it's Alice who's got the real drive and ambition.
"Her sister Lucy is also really supportive and helps whenever it's needed. We couldn't do this without her too."
Marion Farndale, head of Westfield School at Gosforth, said: "We are all proud of Alice's achievement in the national event, and are confident she will not let her country down either.
"Sport is an important school activity here, and Alice's skills are remarkable."
