A TORFAEN youngster is part of a team of 18 set to represent Great Britain at an ice skating world championship in Canada this April.

Kyla Graham, aged 16, from Llantarnam, Cwmbran, is a member of ice skating squad Team Spirit from Wales and West Synchronised Skating Club who will represent Team GB at the World Synchronised Skating Championships in Ontario.

Senior team Team Spirit is made up of 18 skaters aged from 14 onwards and based in Cardiff. Last time the team competed at the annual championships they came 21st.

The annual event will this year take place in Ontario on April 10 and 11, and attracts synchronised skating teams from around the world.

Katrina Cotterrall, coach of Team Spirit, said: “We are very excited to be selected to represent Great Britain at the World Synchronized Skating Championships.

"The competition is a key event in the synchronised skating calendar, and the team have been working extremely hard to perfect their routine.”

Miss Graham, who attends St Alban's RC High School in Pontypool, said: "Ice skating is my life. It's very hard work but so rewarding. It's wonderful to be part of a marvellous team and I am looking to competing in Canada.

"I hope that, with plenty of hard work, and a little good fortune, we might even force our way into the Winter Olympics in South Korea in 2018."

Kyla's mum, councillor Maria Graham - who represents the Llantarnam ward on Torfaen County Borough Council - said: "I am so proud of Kyla and the rest of Team Spirit for their marvellous achievements.

"It is very satisfying to see our young people using their time constructively and reaching their goals. I am delighted for Kyla that all her hard work and training is starting to bring its rewards."