A YOUNG Millom girl with a passion for the outdoors has been recognised by a leading wildlife organisation.

Heidi Haine is the pride of the town after being shortlisted for a major wildlife competition, the Cairngorms Nature Young Presenter of the Year.

The 10-year-old put her extensive knowledge and creativity to the test by producing a 90-second video clip on what she loves most about nature.

Heidi's entry is soon to be scrutinised by members of the public as she goes head-to-head with seven other bright youngsters from across the country.

Check out Heidi's entry here:

Delighted to have been shortlisted, Heidi said: "I'm really excited and it would just be incredible to win."

The enviable prize is an absolute dream for any wildlife enthusiast: a five-day stay in the stunning Cairngorm National Park with her family and a day spent making a short film with Springwatch presenter Iolo Williams.

Heidi's mum Debbie was thrilled to hear of her daughter's success and is incredibly proud of what she's achieved.

She said: "I recognised the name of the lady we sent the email to and I just thought this was it: that Heidi hadn't been successful. I saw the word 'congratulations' and just couldn't believe it - I was so excited!"

The talented youngster has not only shown her creativity with her video but is also a complete science whizz and was part of the team that recently won the Little Big Bang competition with Sellafield.

Determined to enjoy a dazzling career, Heidi is contemplating becoming a wildlife presenter on television or specialist engineer creating buildings that are inspired by nature.

She also dreams of travelling the world and discovering natural treasures such as the Great Barrier Reef.

She said: "I love marine animals and would love to go diving. I want to go to the Great Barrier Reed because of the crown of thorns starfish killing the reef.

"I want to go and see it and try to help."

The Black Combe School pupil has always been drawn to wildlife and constantly studies the movements of animals around the area.

She said: "I like studying animals and how they behave and what makes them do things.

"I like knowing things and how they work."

Members of the public are now being asked to vote for their favourite entry before the closing date on Monday December 5.

Heidi and her family are calling on people across Millom and Cumbria as a whole to support her entry and vote.

<strong> You can vote for Heidi here. </strong>

Not only has the process helped Heidi learn more about nature, it has helped her grow as an individual and hopes that a win will be a huge confidence boost.

She said: "I've definitely enjoyed the whole process. I used to be absolutely terrified of cameras but now I've got a lot better."