Jessica (right) and Amy train for two hours before school

Jessica Mallender, 11, from Eckington, North Derbyshire, is competing in the British Ice Skating Championships.

She is one of just 14 contestants in her age group in the contest, which is being held at Nottingham's National Ice Centre.

She became interested in the sport when, aged seven, she went skating with a friend.

Jessica said: "My friend took me skating and I really enjoyed it.

"I went home and told my mum I really wanted to carry on."

I love every minute of it...it's a beautiful sport Delyse Mallender, Jessica's mother

But when Jessica was born, her mother Delyse Mallender, feared her daughter would not even be able to walk properly.

She said the condition was picked up within hours of the birth, and for the first year of her life the youngster had to wear a plastic brace.

During the week Jessica and her fellow skater Amy Tanner, also 11, get up as early as 0500 BST to practice at Sheffield Ice Sports Centre for around two hours before school.

Jessica also fits in two evening sessions a week and one on Saturday morning.

Mrs Mallender said: "I love every minute of it, obviously.

"It's very expensive so you've got to enjoy it. But it's a beautiful sport."