A COUNTY Durham schoolgirl is hoping to represent her country in a fast-paced equestrian event.

Georgina Wood is hoping to compete with the senior British Carriage Driving Team next year.

The 16-year-old, a pupil at Barnard Castle School, has been competing with the British junior team all year, but now feels ready to compete with the adults.

Georgina, from Catterick Garrison, North Yorkshire, has been involved with the sport since she was nine, since her mother, Penny, introduced her to it.

Georgina will spend this winter introducing her horse, Lucky, to the pastime.

Georgina said: "I have been into horses all my life and carriage driving has a real thrill factor because it's really dangerous."

Known at her stables as Fearless Fred, she competes in three types of competition: dressage, cones and 15-23km marathons.

"The last one is really hazardous as you go flat out through gates and trees," she said.

"I had my first tip-up this year. I was going full speed and was trying to turn when my old veteran horse Jack slipped and actually bent the shaft.

"I was leading the British team at the time as well."

Next year she hopes to compete in national competitions at Windsor, Alnwick, in Northumberland, and Lowther, in Cumbria.

"I really hope I can move up and am selected for the full British team," she said.

Deputy headteacher Oliver Marlow said: "Carriage driving is unusual and extremely skilful so it is quite a feat that Georgina is enjoying so much success at such an early age.

"We are all immensely proud of her achievements so far and look forward to seeing her compete next year."