A Barnoldswick teenager has battled through cystic fibrosis to become a champion cheerleader.

Lucy Broughton, 18, of Kelbrook Road, was diagnosed with potentially deadly cystic fibrosis when she was just five years old but has never allowed her illness to stop her pursuing her hobbies.

And her determination has paid off as she has just won the European Elite Cheerleading Championships, with a team from Leeds-based Aviator Allstars.

Lucy’s mixed 20-member stunt team had to beat more than 50 other teams in the championships held at Movie Park, a theme park in Bottrop, Germany.

The Aviator Allstars’ two-minute routine included tumbling, stunts and dance.

However cheerleading was not Lucy’s first choice of activity when she first arrived at Leeds Metropolitan University.

“I’ve been a trampoliner for a long time, but they didn’t offer it at the university so I thought I’d give cheerleading a go,” Lucy said. “And I really enjoy it.”

The former West Craven High Technology College pupil, who is studying law, has not let cystic fibrosis affect her healthy lifestyle. In fact, regular exercise is encouraged for sufferers of the disease as it helps to loosen the mucus that builds up within the lungs.

Lucy said she was naturally sporty, which helped keep the cystic fibrosis at bay. Her preferred sports, which involve balance and co-ordination, complement the physiotherapy that sufferers undergo.

Her mum Jacky Broughton said: “She isn’t any different and cystic fibrosis doesn’t stop her from doing anything.

“She hasn’t had any serious illnesses (associated with cystic fibrosis) since she was seven. She’s been lucky, but Lucy works very hard and the exercise definitely helps.”

And Jacky is over the moon at Lucy’s accomplishments at the international championships in Germany.

“She’s done well to be picked for the elite team that won the championships as she’s only been doing cheerleading since last October,” she said.

However, Lucy’s championship success is the second this year.

She was a member of the Leeds Mets all-girls cheerleading team that won the International Cheerleading Coalition British Open Cheer and Dance Championships held at Nottingham in March.