A talented table tennis player has been selected to represent her country in an international competition later this month.

Sophie Ackred, of Chetwynde School, secured her place in the British Senior Schools Internationals taking place at the University of Galway in Ireland.

Selectors praised the ‘high standard’ Sophie has achieved to make it to the event where she will compete against teams from Ireland, Scotland, Wales, Jersey, Guernsey and the Isle of Man.

The Year 9 pupil, who helps run the school’s table tennis club along with her dad Paul, said she was delighted to receive the letter confirming her place in the finals.

“I’m excited and really proud to be selected,” said Sophie. “I’ve played in the schools internationals twice before and it was a fantastic experience.”

Sophie, who is a sporting all-rounder and also enjoys football and cricket, first picked up a table tennis bat when she was around six years old.

She was introduced to the sport by her dad, Paul, who has played locally for many years and helps run the local league and junior and adult coaching sessions.

“Sophie puts time and effort into her training. She loves sport and also helps also run the morning table tennis sessions at Chetwynde School, which are for pupils from Year 4 upwards,” he said.

“The sessions we run on a Tuesday and Thursday evening at the school have also been a great success with a number of juniors who initially came for a practice with friends now playing in the local league against senior players.

“Table tennis is not only a great sport from the physical aspect but also helps develop friendships which can last many years and is truly an inclusive sport for all.”