SHE may only be 11 but this Ringwood youngster is making a tremendous splash in the world of water-skiing. After winning a gold medal in the British National Championships two weeks ago Helen Glendenning was picked for the British Water Ski Squad.

As if all that wasn't enough the talented water baby has also reached the pinnacle of her career by becoming the British number one in her age group.

But with a pedigree like hers it was inevitable that Helen would do just swimmingly in her chosen sport.

Both her parents, Mike and Pam, are water-ski coaches - with Mike also being the founder of Ringwood's famous Ivy Lake ski centre.

Mike said: "Obviously we are very proud of Helen, who is making a real name for herself in the world of water-skiing.

"It must be in her genes. When she was only ten months old my wife took her out on a board, and when she was three she asked if she could start water-skiing.

"By the age of five she was wanting to compete. We've never pushed her into doing it, it's just something she has always wanted to do. She loves the water."

Despite her tremendous achievements Helen was overwhelmed and completely taken by surprise that the British national squad wanted her on board.

She has been on the national training squad for three years, but this next step up means she will now compete for her country abroad.

Most 11-year-olds spend their school holidays playing and resting, but Helen devotes all her time to water-skiing.

She trains seven days a week in Ringwood, Chichester and London, with former world champ John Battleday.

Helen can always count on the support of her biggest fan, her brother Mark, 13.

Mark suffers from cerebral palsy and cannot talk, but shows his support in many other ways.

Mike explained: "Mark is absolutely crazy about his little sister and is always out on the boat with her, encouraging her all the time.

"We are all very proud of the achievements of both Helen and Mark."