SKIPPING across the ice at Oxford rink, Segen Habtemichael looks like she could have been skating since she could walk.

But she first stepped on to the ice only two years ago.

Born in Eritrea, in east Africa, she was just two-and-a-half years old when she and her mother Eden, 30, fled a civil war in their homeland.

Eden was a television journalist, but when her safety and that of her baby became threatened, they escaped to Britain and a new life in Oxford.

Six years on, Segen has gone from being an infant only just beginning to learn her mother tongue, to a confident student, who dreams of becoming a professional ice skater.

She said: "The first time I went on the ice was really funny, because I kept on falling over. But I wasn't scared, so I wanted to carry on. Now I wish that the whole world was made of ice, so I could skate any time I want."

After progressing very quickly through the skating beginners badges, Segen won local spin/spiral/jump competitions at Oxford Ice Rink, in Oxpens Road.

At the same time, she started to learn ice dance, showing a natural sense of timing and interpretation of the music.

And at the end of last year, she passed three of the National Ice Skating Association's Level 1 ice dance tests, which were needed to allow her to compete in the 2007 British Solo Ice Dance Championship qualifying events.

Segen's mother Eden said: "When I saw the ice rink in Oxford, I took her there for just fun activity. I didn't imagine she would be a good at it.

"But after her first day of skating, she wanted to do it again, and before long, she began to take lessons.

"On the third day of training, Segen fell twice and sustained a bad laceration on her chin. I was scared and wanted her stop but her answer was: 'Mummy, falling is the way of learning' so I changed my mind.

"I am beginning to believe she could be a professional skater, but as a single mum, I find it difficult to support her ambitions.

"I am working part-time as a project co-ordinator for Refugee Resource, and am studying part-time, but the expenses for outfits, transport, accommodation and private lessons are very hard for me to meet."

Segen's coach, Pamela Rhodes, is also impressed by Segen's determination.

She said: "Segen was very enthusiastic from the start. She showed great determination to do everything, but initially seemed totally unable to stay on her feet for more than a few seconds.

"I've never before or since seen a child fall so many times in such a short period, then get up and try again and again (usually with the same result)! But as time passed, it became clear that this determination would be her key to success."

Another of Segen's supporters is her teacher at Church Cowley St James School, Emma Watson, who said: "She shows the potential to be a future household name, possibly an Olympian."

Meanwhile, Eden Habtemichael remains full of wonder for her daughter's growing achievements.

"Now my family back in Eritrea say 'that little girl from a warm country competing and dancing on ice' - they don't believe it."