Scottish ice skating sensation Taylor Ronald has set her sights on winning next month’s British Championships – less than a year after suffering a near life-threatening injury.

The 13-year-old from East Kilbride secured victory in last year’s Welsh Open – qualifying for the British Championships in the process – but crashed her sledge into a tree just two days before the competition.

The teen star ruptured her spleen, was in hospital for ten days and off the rink for three months but one year on, Ronald has retained her Welsh Open title and is desperate for her shot at national glory.

“All my jumps have improved, and I've landed a double axel in competition which is a sign of really good progress, just on time for the championships,” she said.

“Now I need to do that consistently.  I'd be disappointed not to win I really do believe I have a good chance if I can perform to the best of my ability.

“But we'll see how it goes. In future I'd like to make it to the Olympics, and get as far as I can - ultimately, I'd like to go on and coach."

Taylor is the daughter of 2004 Scottish PGA champion Craig Ronald and the proud father has no doubt his daughter is a star in the making.

“I'm obviously biased, but I do think Taylor could be an Olympic skater if she gets proper support and backing,” he said.