A student from Abbots Langley, along with her white water rafting team mates, has qualified to represent Team GB in this year’s World Rafting Championships.

Jaimee Kennedy, of Manor House Gardens, is one of seven girls to be selected for Great Britain’s first girls U19 Youth Rafting Team, and will compete in the World Championships taking place at the Citarik River in Indonesia, from November 29 to December 3.

The 18-year-old, who currently attends Rickmansworth School, began her training at Lea Valley White Water Centre in Waltham Cross, and has been part of the team for just under a year.

Of the seven girls in the team, only one had paddling experience when they began training.

But an impressive performance at a selection day at the centre a few weeks ago, lead the girls to being selected.

Emma Shumake, Jaimee's mum, said: "The girls took part in four different events over two days - sprint, head to head, slalom and downriver.

"They competed against three other ladies teams and finished second behind the current GB ladies team.

"Their success came down to the sheer determination, demonstrated by all seven girls, and the invaluable coaching from Fieke Reijntjes."

Miss Kennedy, and the girls, is now looking forward to the competition later on this year.

She said: It feels amazing to be selected for the world championships as all our hard work in training has finally paid off.

"Myself, and all the girls are so excited to have the chance to represent our country in Indonesia, and are determined to do everyone proud."

The GB boys U19 youth team and senior team will also join the girls in Indonesia.

Ms Shumake added: "We are incredibly proud of Jaimee and the team. They have all shown real dedication towards their training, turning up every week even through the very cold winter months.

"The girls are now looking for sponsors in order to raise £25,000 to get them to the World Championships.

"Anyone who can help with this can contact Wendy Daley by email at wendy-d@hedron.com."