EMILY Notman finished a fine second at the National Schools Association Championships despite being the youngest competitor in the field.

Notman, from Kingham near Chipping Norton, competed alongside 40 riders at Addington Manor in Buckingham.

The 12-year-old came through qualifying rounds at Rectory Farm in Cirencester and South View in Cheshire.

Notman, and her pony, Bailey XII, were competing for Burford School and cleared the first phase before securing second place overall.

She said: “I never thought I would finish that high up.

“I was particularly happy as it was my mum’s birthday so it was a lovely present for her.”

Notman also came third in a style and performance competition.