A YOUNG girl from Poole will compete in the Shetland Grand National next month.

Lily Draper, 11, is a school pupil at Parkstone Grammar School and has been selected to ride Zorro, her 19-year-old horse, at The London International Horse Show in December.

The Shetland Pony Grand National supports the Bob Champion Cancer Trust and Lily is hoping to raise large funds for the charity in the run up to London.

The Bob Champion Cancer Trust supports and raises funds for the Bob Champion Cancer Research Laboratory, a research facility in Europe.

To prepare for the competition and raise money for the cause, Lily has decided to swim 15 miles during the week beginning November 25.

A JustGiving page dedicated to Lily’s journey reads: “Much to our amazement Lily is totally and utterly committed to riding & has set herself some big goals.

“This year we have travelled to every corner of the UK with the Shetland Pony Grand National which has been amazing.

“Lily is delighted to have achieved her dream and been selected to ride at The London International Horse Show in Excel 18-22nd December as part of the Shetland Pony Grand National. She will be riding the mighty Zorro in two shows a day after a busy and exciting racing season at shows across the UK.

“As a keen swimmer, she has decided to swim 15miles over the week beginning 25th November and would love your support of this fantastic charity.

“If you are a business keen to feature on Lily's breeches there is one spot for £250. Also if you would like to be a key sponsor and feature in this year’s London International Horse Show official programme please get in touch.”

A spokesperson for Parkstone Grammar said: “Parkstone Grammar School would like to congratulate our student Lily for qualifying to compete in this event and wish her the very best of luck on the day.”

Donations can be made to Lily’s JustGiving titled, Lily's fundraiser for Bob Champion Cancer Trust.