A TEENAGER has been dubbed one of the top skiers for her age in the country.

Amber Gladin, 15, was awarded as the third fastest skier in her age category in England following the Club National competition held in Norwich and Ipswich in May.

Amber, who lives in Great Yeldham, competed against skiers from across the country and was less than a second from scoring first place.

She said: "I felt really happy that I was third in the country, but upset too because I could have skied better and been first as I was only 0.02 seconds off the time for top place."

The pupil at Hedingham School in Sible Hedingham where she is studying her GCSE's has spent three months of this year training for slalom, giant slalom and super G, an extended version of the giant slalom, in Pila in Italy with the British Ski Academy.

"Skiing is my main priority after schooling. I want to be the best and ski on the World Cup circuit." she said.

Last week Amber also competed in the British Individual Schools competition in Manchester, representing Hedingham School.

She came first place for her age and second place across all female skiers competing.

Amber said next year she hopes so spend more time training in Italy, where she can make the most of the snow.

A spokesman from the school said: "With Amber’s talent and determination this is very likely to happen and everyone at Hedingham School wishes her success in her endeavours."

Amber's passion from skiing grew from a school trip to Italy three years ago, which inspired her to continue the sport at home on dry slopes.

When she is not training in Italy, Amber still trains on the dry slopes twice a week with the Hemel Hempstead Ski Race Club.