A NETBALL player is set to inspire more girls to get into sport after being made an ambassador for Sport England.

Burnley College student Meghan Whitehead, from Baxenden, underwent training at the Olympic Park in London as part of the 'This Girl Can' campaign which aims to get more girls into sport.

The 18-year-old is a trainee coach and netball academy star, who is studying for a sports science diploma at the college.

Selected students from across the UK were chosen to attend the training day to focus on how to encourage others to take up sports.

They were given training in using social media to promote activities and training sessions, as well as being invited to attend inspirational talks by athletes, trainers and coaches.

Meghan, who works as a swimming teacher and plays netball for Ribble Valley Netball Club, said: "I was chosen as an ambassador for Sport England’s Lottery funded This Girl Can campaign after my tutors Brad Pates and Julia Kelly put my name forward.

“This Girl Can said I would be an excellent example to young women and girls who might not take part in sports but would like to become more active or join a sporting team.

"My experience in netball and coaching meant that I could easily see the benefits of joining the This Girl Can campaign, because it’s important for me not just to excel in my sport, but to develop my leadership skills and encourage others to get motivated and involved with sports."

The former Oakhill School student said she has been passionate about sports throughout her life and hopes to study sports rehabilitation at Cumbria University.

"I’m really grateful to my supportive tutors who saw the potential for me to succeed with This Girl Can and put me forward for it – the day at Olympic Park was an amazing experience and I met some really inspirational people," she said.

Meghan will be meeting with members of the North West This Girl Can ambassadors at an official gathering in Lancashire later this year.

Principal Hugh Bramwell said: "We are extremely proud of Meghan for representing Burnley College Sixth Form Centre so impeccably at this prestigious national event.

"Meghan’s own outstanding achievements have been well-recognised throughout the college and we wish her all the very best with her plans to progress to one of the country’s leading Sports Rehabilitation university courses."