A PLUCKY Cutnall Green rider overcame having her riding gear stolen to win the under-12s category at the Midland Showjumping Championships. UNSTOPPABLE TEAM: Emily Cooper, aged 12, with her horse, Taboo.

Emily Cooper, aged 12, rode horse taboo to victory in Bridgnorth.

However, the Droitwich High School pupil almost didn't make the event after her riding gear, called 'tack', was stolen.

She was rescued by kindhearted Steve Sturgess, who built her a new saddle in four days before the tournament.

Mother Andrea said: "It looked like Emily wasn't going to be able to compete and that would have broke her heart.

"But Steve was brilliant, he pulled out all of the stops."

To win the Midlands title Emily went clear in the final two rounds.

Mrs Cooper said: "Emily is a very gifted rider.

"She works very hard and it would have been a tragedy if she had not been able to compete."

Emily, who owns three horses, has been riding since she was eight and is affiliated to the British Show Jumping Association (BSJA).