A TEENAGE rider and an old pony have beaten the odds to qualify for a national horse show.

It was love at first sight for 16-year-old Vicky Homden and her prize-winning pony Starlight Express.

They met three years ago when the pony came to the Hampshire Riding Therapy Centre in such ill health that she was on the brink of death.

Vicky, from Allbrook Hill, in Eastleigh, knows all about overcoming health conditions, having had open-heart surgery when she was two years old.

Centre manager Kerie Coutts said they didn't have much hope for the pony when she came to the stables of the centre at Hensting Lane, Fisher's Pond, near Fair Oak.

Vicky not only helped nurse Star back to health, but also formed an partnership with the pony and within a year they were winning competitions. Next month, they will compete in the Royal London International Show.

"It is great for both of them because Star is 22 now, which is very old for a horse, and Vicky has become a very good rider and often goes up against professionals who have been riding for years," said Kerie.

Vicky is a full-time trainee with the charity, which caters for children with disabilities and lifelong conditions.

The centre still needs to raise money to compete in the contest, held in Essex.

It raised more than £2,000 from a Hallowe'en trick or treat horse ride through Fisher's Pond but still needs another £800.

For information about making donations, visit the website www.hampshire-riding-therapy-centre.org.uk.