PROMISING teenage showjumper William Whitaker is backing London's bid for the Olympics.

The Huddersfield youngster - part of the Whitaker showjumping dynasty - threw his weight behind the campaign to get the 2012 games to the UK.

His comments came as a 13-strong team of inspectors from the International Olympic Committee were in London today to analyse the plans aiming to bring the games back to Britain for the first time since 1948.

William, 15, who lives at Longwood, is currently training with the GB equestrian team.

He said: "I've been around ponies all my life and started competing at the age of nine.

"I ride every single day after school to constantly improve my performance.

"My uncles John and Michael Whitaker have been my main inspiration as they have always given me the encouragement and motivation to keep competing and always believing in myself.

"Towards the end of last year I came off my horse and was injured quite badly.

"I couldn't ride for over six weeks and it was a challenge to get back into form again and keep my focus.

"Once I got over my injury it was a great feeling to get back on a horse again.

"Last year I competed with the British team in France at Le Touquet, where I had the opportunity to compete against other European teams.

"It was a brilliant experience to test myself at an international level."

He added: "I would love to see the Olympics being hosted in London in 2012. My ambition would be to compete and represent my country at the highest level.

"However if I don't get the opportunity to compete it would be great for London to host it for the prestige.

"I'm behind the bid 100%."