COLCHESTER ski racer Sophie Hughes is feeling on top of the world after being named in the England under-14 Alpine Ski Squad for the 2017/18 season.

The 13-year-old, who currently trains with Kandahar Ski Club in the Alps and at Brentwood Dry Slope, is excited about the season ahead.

She said: “It's an exciting new opportunity to improve and take my skiing to the next level.

"My goals for this season are top ten placings in every race and to be on the podium at the Interschools races.”

Sophie, who started skiing at the age of four and competed in her first race at ten, is hoping to spend as much time as possible training and racing on-snow this winter with Kandahar.

The Chelmsford-based New Hall School pupil wants to continue to become a more competitive ski racer.

Snowsport England Talent Development Officer Ian Findlay said: "We are delighted that Sophie has been selected to be part of the England Alpine Squad. "She has shown that she has both the talent and attitude to become part of the squad, which will give her support alongside her existing training programme.

"Being part of the squad provides additional guidance both on and off snow which will aid Sophie’s journey towards competing at a National level.”