Painsley Catholic College student, Emily Bettany from Staffordshire, is celebrating some fantastic results at the recent Horse of the Year Show in Birmingham.

This is the first time the young rider has attended the show, which took place from 3rd October to 7th, and promises not to be the last.

On the Saturday Emily was asked to ride a pony for another member of her team and was delighted to win the championship in the main arena at night watched by over 10,000 people.

Emily rode Drakemyre, Puttin’ On The Ritz (Alfie) for the Till family and was delighted when he came first in the Kathleen Wood Children’s Riding Pony of the Year Championship. Emily also appeared in the event’s TV coverage.

The14-year-old came 6th and 7th in the show hunter pony and mountain and moorland large breeds on the Sunday.

Emily’s days at the Horse of the Year Show involved getting up every morning at 4am to warm up and then practice throughout the day until show time.

“I am really grateful to my school for allowing me to take part in this wonderful experience, also to my family and friends whose support and enthusiasm has meant the world to me,” said Emily.