JAMES Reis, 17, a pupil at Ferndown Upper School, has become the youngest person ever to be picked for the English team of the Mounted Games.

Riders in the sport complete athletic tasks, such as picking up flags, while riding ponies and the world championships will be held this year in Wales.

James, who was previously awarded a scholarship by the John Thornton Young Achievers Foundation, rides Maestro and was a member of the English Under 17 side.

The first world championship was held in 1985 and now there are more than 20 countries with teams.

The sport was inspired by a tournament set up by Prince Philip in the 1950s.