A SCHOOLGIRL is on the road to Olympic glory after showing a natural flair for snowboarding.

Nicole Haines, of Surrey Avenue, Leigh, has established herself as one of the top junior freestyle snowboarders in the country despite only taking the extreme sport three years ago.

The 11-year-old has been selected for the national Park and Pike Academy squad, which provides a pathway to representing Great Britain in the Olympics.

She has been asked to go to Austria with the squad in late September to compete at international level, but the Bedford High School student first needs to raise funds for the trip.

Nicole, who has competed in Austria before, has organised a September 17 fundraising night at Leigh Miners Welfare Institute on Kirby Road and is hoping for a good turnout.

There will be a DJ, hot and cold food, a raffle and other activities to enjoy and the money raised will also go to Nicole's chosen charities the MS Society UK and Embrace Wigan and Leigh, which supports people with learning and physical disabilities.

Her mum Rachael, 38, said: "Competing in the Olympics is her dream and I want to help her reach her goals.

"She needs to be in Austria to reach the top so this fundraising night is very important to her."

Nicole first tried snowboarding at the Chill Factore in Manchester after having £25 left from her birthday money when she turned eight.

Rachael added: "She instantly became hooked on snowboarding.

"It is not easy but she is incredible.

"She is also very responsible, making sure that she can keep up with her schooling while training and competing in Austria.

“I am very proud.”

Tickets for the fundraising night cost £6 for adults and £3 for children.

To buy tickets call 07983 414419 or 07950 746325.