ENGLAND and Manchester City footballer Melissa Lawley paid a visit to girls at Kidderminster Lions.

The popular player had photos taken with the girls, signed autographs, took part in a question and answer session, and joined in with the girls' coaching sessions.

She also donated her England shirt that she wore against Germany so the club can auction it to raise money for new equipment.

Lawley was invited by Sally Haines, head of girls football development at Kidderminster Lions Football Club, to help inspire her youngsters and show them a women's football role model.

Haines said: "It was an amazing experience for the girls. I’ve had great feedback from them and the parents already, with the girls keen to start following Melissa’s career, going to matches, and some already wanting to be like Melissa.

"I’ve been to so many events where if you ask them who their favourite players are it’s usually Messi or Ronaldo. Of course that is great, but what I want to do is raise their awareness of the progressing professional women’s leagues and the fantastic female role models out there that they can be inspired by and aspire too.

"Melissa was fantastic with the girls. That’s what it’s all about, a top player in the women’s game giving her time to inspire young girls to want to play football. Melissa explained to them how hard she had to train, and the sacrifices she had to make, but it was all worthwhile when you are in the the stadium playing for your club or representing your country."

Kidderminster Lions are now recruiting girls for their under-8s and under-11s.

Haines will also be running a Soccer School for girls ages 5-11 every Sunday at White Wickets Park, Franche Road, Kidderminster, from 10am-11am at just £2.50 per session.

She is also hoping to encourage women to get involved in girls football, whether it be coaching, managing a team, or helping out in some way at the club. Anyone interested in getting involved should call her on 07803 086774.