Teenage Paralympian takes to the skies

Gabriella Down Credit: ITV Anglia

Gabriella Down from Milton Keynes is no ordinary teenager.

The 14 year old has just been selected to represent Team GB at the paralympics, as part of the fencing team. And this weekend she has realised another dream: flying a plane.

Pilot Gabriella Down before take off Credit: ITV Anglia

At Cranfield airport Gabriella took the helm of a specially adapted plane that can be controlled using only your hands.

The day was organised by two charities; Variety, which sponsors Gabriella - and Freedom in the Air

As the third youngest member of Team GB - London 2012 may be more about experience than medals for Gabriella - but after today's lesson she's setting her sights high for Brazil 2016.

Up in the air: Gabriella Down flies over the Bedfordshire countryside Credit: ITV Anglia