A PROFOUNDLY deaf teenager has won an award for her achievements on a motorbike.

Trials bike rider Kathryn Wardle, 16, this week received a Motor Cycle Industry Association (MCI) award for outstanding achievement.

Kathryn, of Richmond, North Yorkshire, started riding when she was only three.

Despite having acute hearing problems, she has risen to the top of her sport and has won the British and European ladies' championships.

She said: "Everything I have aimed for, I have achieved with the help of my family, Richmond Motor Club and the Autocycle Union (ACU) trials' training instructors.

"I cannot really explain my feelings, but I do know it was an amazing sensation when I learned that I had been nominated by the ACU in recognition of success in trials and overcoming my hearing disability."

Kathryn's mother, Dorothy, said she was proud of her daughter: "Winning this award means a lot to all of us.

"Competing in trials has enhanced Kathryn's confidence.

"When she started riding, she would always wait until the other competitors had gone through a section. Not any more, she rides first or last, it does not matter."

Kathryn's father, Steven, hopes his daughter can inspire young people who have similar disabilities to take up motorcycling.

British Superbike champion John Reynolds and seven-times trials champion Dougie Lampkin presented the award at the International Motorcycle and Scooter Show at Birmingham NEC this week.

MCI youth co-ordinator Jenny Luckman said: "Kathryn has not allowed her deafness to prevent her from succeeding at a high level in a competitive field.

"I hope that other young people will be enthused by Kathryn's achievements and might even consider getting involved in motorcycling."