A TALENTED pupil from a Worcestershire school is riding high after winning a national riding competition.

Emily Archer, 13, was representing Abberley Hall School in Great Witley when she triumphed in the National Schools Equestrian Association championship in Buckingham.

Riding her horse Top Star, Emily, who lives in Clifton-on-Teme, beat riders from across the country with an impressive total score of 77 per cent.

Cecilia Dean, a science teacher who coaches young equestrians at the school, said: “We are very proud that Emily has won such a prestigious national title representing Abberley Hall - she and her horse performed exceptionally well."

Emily has been riding for eight years and competes for Clifton Pony Club as well as being a member of British Dressage, representing the West Midlands region.

Riding lessons are becoming more and more popular at Abberley Hall, which is situated in 90 acres of land in Great Witley, and pupils are even allowed to take their own ponies to the school.

“Our stables and ménage are increasingly popular with children who can keep their ponies here and enjoy the safe routes around our grounds, as well as receiving lessons in riding and stable management from qualified riding instructors,” added Cecilia Dean.