NATALIE Osborn is scaling new heights in a career switch.

The 26-year-old, a former RAF police officer, has not only became a firefighter, she graduated top of her class.

She made history yesterday by becoming the first female firefighter to be presented by Cleveland Fire Brigade with a nationally recognised and coveted Silver Axe award for being top trainee - beating both men and other women on her course in Teesside.

She was judged to have performed best over an intensive 14-weeks of training in drill, practical work, initiative, reliability and community education.

John Doyle, Cleveland Fire Brigade's chief officer, said: "Natalie had to show exceptional qualities to win her Silver Axe award. She was up against tough competition from talented men and women who want to succeed in the modern fire service at a time of great change. I wish her every success for the future.''

Ms Osborn, from Tyne and Wear, said: "I think a lot of women would like to be firefighters but possibly think it is male dominated. It is just a case of getting the message across.

"But, it is no different to being a female. You do not get treated differently and you are only as strong as the weakest person in the job - and that need not be a woman.''

Training centre manager Ian Harrington said the presentation of the Silver Axe award was a first for the brigade.

She said: "I am over the moon for her. She really put the effort in. It is really deserved."