SPORTS-MAD Ruth Smith could be worth her weight in gold if she continues her winning streak.

For the Butterstile County Primary pupil this week jetted off to Toronto in Canada to compete in the World Dwarf Games.

The athletic ten-year-old has competed in every National Dwarf Games since they were first held in 1994 and just recently gained seven more medals for her sporting achievements at the 2001 Games at Birmingham NEC in May.

And Ruth, who suffers from a growth stunting condition, has high hopes of victory once more as she competes against the best athletes in her field as part of the 55-strong UK contingent.

Brave Ruth, of Shire Hills, Prestwich, was born with achondroplasia and it is unlikely she will grow taller than 4ft. But her condition has never posed an obstacle to her and she was hailed as a Millennium Child of Achievement last year for her enthusiasm for sport and kindness to others.

One of just 150 children in the country to receive the award, which was sponsored by C&A, Ruth was deemed an inspiration to family and friends for the way she looked out for younger brother Phillip, who has diabetes.

Now the whole family, including mum Lynn (49) and dad Dave (48), are rooting for the Manchester Giants basketball fan to do well.

Teacher David, who is manager of the athletics team representing the UK, said: "This will be a real adventure for us all and Ruth has talked of nothing else for days. The competition will be fierce but Ruth is determined to do her best. She just loves taking part."

Ruth will be competing for medals in basketball, hockey, swimming and track and field events, and according to David has "really improved" with her running.

He added: "If she just gets one medal it will be an achievement as the Americans are the ones to beat. She says she doesn't mind but I know that she will be disappointed if she doesn't win anything."

Following a hectic four days of the games, the Smith family will take in the sights, visiting Niagara Falls, and are intending to go to the Little People of America Convention.

Mum Lynn, who is also a teacher, said: "Ruth will be able to meet other children with the same condition and there will be doctors and experts on hand to talk to. It really will be a trip of a lifetime for us."