A TEENAGER has become a working class hero on a tough Tyneside estate after defying the odds to take honours in a top show jumping contest.

Paul Anderson, 17, beat off dozens of other hopefuls from the sport's elite to take the runner-up spot in a national tournament.

The teenager grew up in Fenham, one of the most underprivileged areas of Newcastle, but while his friends kicked a football about, he spent his pocket money travelling across the city to indulge his passion for horses.

Paul spent hours each day mucking out at the Stepney Bank stables in the Byker area of the city, just so he could have a free ride at the end of the day.

His determination has now paid off, and after just six years in the saddle Paul and his horse Willow have taken the second prize in the National Young Rider Championships in Leicester.

The former Westgate Community College pupil said: "It is unusual for someone from my background to be competing in show jumping.

"If I had been at any other riding school I don't think I would have made it.

"I had my first experience of horses riding on a donkey at Blackpool beach when I was young and I was hooked.

"It is difficult competing against horses who are fed on lush green grass and have plenty of room to exercise in when Willow has to make do with feeding on hay in a small enclosure, but it shows how far you can go if you believe in yourself."

Paul believes he would have won the tournament if Willow had not suffered stage fright, as it was the first time he had competed on grass.

Paul Easton, supervisor at Stepney Bank stables where Paul trains, described the teenager as a fantastic role model for other youngsters.

He said: "Because Paul has done it the other kids also believe it can be done.

"They tend to feel there is no world outside of Byker. But seeing someone from the same background as them doing well gives them inspiration to do the same."