Pupils from Thomas Adams School in Wem have upset a competition to finish on the podium of a national show jumping tournament.

The school particpated in the National Schools Equestrian Association (NSEA) show jumping competition in Winsford, Cheshire earlier this month.

A team of four pupils were entered, Angus Chapple and Holly Shore from Year 7, Scarlett Chapple from Year 9 and Ffion Kirby from Year 10 and competed against 35 other competitors in their class.

Teacher at the school, Rachel Holland, said the team were faced with a challenging course.

She said: "It was an early start with all our team members, parents and ponies leaving home around 7am.

"Course walk was open from 8.30am and our first rider was in the warmup for 9am. We walked the course as a team and gave each other some valuable hints and tips.

"The course was very tricky with many spooky fences, tight turns and changes of direction.

"It included several uprights, oxer's and a double.

"With 250-plus entries over the weekend and 35-plus competitors in our class it was very competitive."

Despite the level of competition, which saw Thomas Adams entered as the only state school from Shropshire, the team of riders saw great success, finishing as runners-up.

Rachel added: "The majority of schools competing were from the independent sector, Thomas Adams was the only state school to have a team.

"Holly and Candy got us off to a great start in the clear round section.

"Scarlett and Tansy had a brilliant round completing all 12 fences.

"Next to go was Angus and Bunny, who is a RSPCA pony, who popped some lovely fences.

"Finally, our fourth team member Ffion and Star who jumped a fantastic round, speed and agility over all 12 fences.

"We were delighted when the scores were announced and Thomas Adams had come second.

"It was a fantastic day with a great team spirit, roll on the next!"