PHARMACIST Lisa Tomlinson dispensed with the opposition to win a top horse riding title Down Under.

To her delight Lisa, 33, collected the Australian National Arabian Championship trophy in Sydney.

The former Bedford High School girl, who is fulfilling a five year contract as a chemist in Victoria, took the two to three years old class with her horse, Kash.

Lisa's mum, Lilian, of Green Lane, Leigh, said: "She is absolutely thrilled."

A member of the Arab Society in England, Lisa started riding at Pendlebury's Farm next to St Mary's High Schoopl at Astley at the age of five and got her first pony, Silent Whisper, at the age of 12. He died two years ago at the grand old age of 32.

Together they won many handy pony, gymkhana and cross country events at Leigh Horse and Pony Club and Tyldesley and Worsley shows.

Six years ago she left for Australia with partner Jason Oakley and now has four Arabs and a foal to look after at her home.

Lilian said: "Lisa went to Australia originally on a 13 months contract and was asked to stay on for a further five years.

"We looked after Silent Whisper for her while she was away, but I don't think she will come back now. Life is much better out there."