Durham Women FC have been inspiring the next generation of female athletes on International Women’s Day.

Naoisha McAloon and Rio Hardy visited Bede Sixth Form as they welcomed a number of local schools as part of a sporting festival to encourage young women to pursue their sporting ambitions.

Teams competed across competitions in football, rugby and netball before being presented with trophies by the Durham duo.

And they were also able to find out more about Bede Sixth Form’s fantastic sporting academy options – which allow youngsters to combine training and playing their chosen sport with studying for A-Levels or vocational qualifications.

Speaking about the day, Hardy said: “It’s really good to be here.

“It’s nice to see so many girls out playing football and having these opportunities. There’s more opportunities out there for girls to get involved in football, and they’re taking them up.”

To celebrate International Women’s Day, Durham Women FC are inviting local schools and teams to attend their game with Coventry United on March 13th. For more information, or to claim your tickets, email mark.donnelly@durhamwfc.co.uk.