A TEENAGER is hoping to be galloping ahead of the competition after securing an unusual scholarship.

Ormiston Rivers Academy pupil Rachel Cottee will be heading to Wales to practice her skills in horse and carriage driving.

The teen will be taking part in the British Carriage Driving Society Junior Drivers Camp.

The judges commended Rachel for her “technical skills’ which she achieved “despite not owning her own horse or carriage”.

Her capabilities were described as a “major achievement” by the Rotary Club of Burnham and Dengie Hundred, who introduced Rachel to horse and carriage driving around three years ago.

A spokesman said: “In September 2015, the rotary club arranged a “try out” carriage driving event in Rawreth.

“Its aim was to introduce young people to the art of horse and carriage driving.

“Twelve young local people took part.”

Rachel was one of those who took part and has continued to hone her skills ever since.

She practised the sport at the Ashfield Carriage Driving Centre, just outside Dunmow.

She has now reached a point where she can take the past time even further, and the scholarship will allow Rachel to train at a national level training facility.