A STUDENT who travels hundreds of miles a week to take part in her favourite sport has won an honour in her home town.

Elise Hadgraft, 13, a member of the Durham District Roller Skating Club, in Shildon, travels to the town twice a week from her home in Stockport, Greater Manchester, to train with the team.

Elise is a member of the Great Britain junior squad and competes all over Europe. Her achievements have been recognised with her being named Stockport Sports Performer of the Year for 2003.

She was the only junior to be nominated for the prize, and faced competition from professional footballers and rugby players.

Helen Rickerby of the Durham District Roller Skating Club, said: "She is the most modest girl you could ever meet. She is a little peach and she deserves it."

Members of Durham District Roller Skating Club can be seen in competition in Newton Aycliffe Leisure Centre, on March 27 and 28.