Two rising sporting stars are heading for representative honours after success with their schools.

Hockey ace, Francesca Barker, is scoring goals for the North of England under 16s hockey team despite being just 14, while rugby ace Matthew Betty, will represent Ireland's under 18 rugby team in games at venues such as the Stade de France and Landsdowne Road.

The pair both caught the eye playing for their school, Rossall.

Francesca, from Little Singleton, said: "I've had great coaching at Rossall and playing in the school's first XI has really helped me to develop.

"I'm enjoying my hockey more than ever and hope I can one day even catch the eye of the England selectors, as that would be my dream."

Matthew, from Cleveleys, said: "School rugby this season has been great, as the team is doing exceptionally well but an international call up is a fantastic way to round off what has been a great year for me.

"I'm sure it will be tough at international level but also a tremendous experience."