KIDDERMINSTER gymnast Sophie Lane has been selected to represent Great Britain at the World Summer Special Olympics in China next year.

It is a dream come true for the 13-year-old Sion Hill Middle School pupil who took up the sport when she was seven.

Lane, who has autism, will be part of the gymnastics artistic team at the games in Shanghai.

She is a member of the Special Olympics Worcestershire squad which trains at Baxter College.

Mother Kate Lane thanked Sophie's coaches Leslie Andrews and Sue Perks for helping her qualify for the event.

"Sophie went to Glasgow last July for the British National Games and was excited enough about that, so she is absolutely thrilled to have qualified for China," she said.

"She would not have had the chance to experience any of this if it were not for people like Leslie and Sue who offer their time and skills on a completely voluntary basis."

The Lane family need to raise £2,000 to cover the cost of Sophie's travelling, accommodation and competition expenses.

They are planning a series of fundraising activities but are also appealing to businesses and individuals willing to provide sponsorship.

To sponsor Sophie contact Kate Lane on 07703 020082.