A LLANARTH lad has been selected to represent Wales at the European Mounted Games Championships held in Turin, Italy later this year.

Raglan VC primary school pupil Ben Hopkins is a member of both Monmouthshire Pony Club and the Monmouthshire Mounted Games Team.

And this August the plucky young rider will be taking his pony 'Champ' to Italy where he will ride for his country.

The talented ten-year-old who will be the youngest member of the Welsh squad, earned his spurs through training with team coach Iain Hopkins at their home in Coed Morgan, Llanarth.

In Italy, Ben will compete alongside fellow team members, George Knight Eddins, Ffion Monger, Joe Owen, Eden and Sophie Greaves.

Selection for the Welsh team is Ben's biggest achievement to date and a spokesperson for the squad explained, "It's a wonderful experience being part of an international team at such a young age.

"The whole team will make friends from all around the world and take away many wonderful memories. They will be given the opportunity to sample Italian life as well as enjoy the comprehensive entertainment schedule. It will be a trip and competition of a lifetime for all of them."

Mounted Games Chairman John Griffiths said, "We are very proud of all the riders representing Wales and wish them and their ponies the best of luck."