A BUDDING teenage showjumping star is celebrating a stunning season.

Leah Hayes, 17, from Little Clacton, has pulled off a string of top competition performances with the help of trusty pony Tango.

They have scooped a series of top awards, including prize-winning routines at the Royal Windsor Horse Show and the Great Britain Championships.

Tendring Technology College sixth form student Leah decided to retire 21 year-old Tango this year after five years of showjumping together.

In March she was set to take part in a competition with the school team, riding with her new horse.

But Tango was called back into action at the last minute and helped Leah ace the competition, helping her team qualify for the prestigious Royal Windsor Show.

Mum Emma said: “Leah has always done really well with Tango over the years but last year she decided to slow him down due to his age and concentrate on her new horse and her exams, but fate had other ideas.

“But due to last minute circumstances she had to take, Tango who hadn't been jumped in a while.

“Leah turned up to the show with Tango still covered in wet mud but he was fantastic and got a fast double clear for the team that qualified them for Royal Windsor Horse show.”

Leah continued jumping and competing with Tango to get him ready for the top shows of the season.

They won the Lowery Challenge Cup and the Young Riders Cup at this year’s Tendring Show, and put in a brilliant performance at the Royal Windsor Show, in front of Windsor Castle.

Leah also won the Taverner trophy at Wix Equestrian Centre and qualified for the Great Britain Championships.

The annual showcase, held in Wales, brings together the top junior riders in Britain to compete, taking on four courses over three days.

Leah and Tango capped an excellent year by clinching a gold and silver in the competition.

Mum Emma added: “Leah has chased this show every year and this year would be her last because of her age, so it meant a lot to her.

“They came away with gold and silver, and when it was announced Leah held back tears of joy.

“It was a fantastic way to finish her years on Tango and now she is going to let him retire like the star that he is.

“It was an amazing year and we are so proud of her achievements.”