RADCLIFFE schoolgirl Nicole Uren is a national champion.

Nicole (9), of Lever Street, fought off a challenge from 45 other youngsters to win at a major horse riding competition.

Riding Penric Vision, she took the Waxwing First Ridden Championship at the Ponies UK national winter finals in Bedford . The horse is owned by Lynda Hexham, also from Radcliffe.

Nicole has only been riding in First Ridden classes since last July and this was her first major win.

Mrs Hexham said: "We went to the championships hoping for a placing, but things just got better and better. We couldn't believe it when Nicole won -- we were ecstatic."

Penric Vision was bought for Mrs Hexham's daugher, Michelle, who has a mental disability. "But it would be such a waste for him not to compete at shows," said Mrs Hexham. "He is a good all-rounder and can compete in three classes, but First Ridden is where he excels."

Penric Vision was fourth in a recent Colne competition -- he was ridden by Dina Kavanagh who was been riding just four months. Dina and Nicole are both taught by Susan Craven of Ainsworth.