WORKING with Olympians is inspiring Alderley Edge children to play hockey.

Kate and Helen Richardson-Walsh, Team GB Rio Olympic gold medallists, spent time with Alderley Edge Hockey Club juniors and students from Alderley Edge School for Girls.

As well as a coaching session, the internationals – who now both play for HC Bloemendall in The Netherlands – took part in a Q&A session and signed autographs.

Eleven-year-old Alderley Edge junior Theo Hunt said: “I went along because I wanted to learn some new skills and I had a great time. I want to be a hockey player when I grow up.”

Originally from the Stockport area, former GB women’s hockey captain Kate said: “I started following AEHC on Twitter after the Olympics because I could see how much amazing work was being done here and how many great juniors the club has.

"Helen and I get to do lots of different things but, in the end, it’s all about the hockey family and coming back to clubs like this is the thing we hold most dear.”

“Clubs like AEHC are the bedrock of the game,” added Helen.

“I started my hockey career at my local club when I was seven and learnt important lessons about loyalty, respect and teamwork, as well as having fantastic fun and forging lifelong friendships – giving something back at this stage in my career is amazing.”

AESG head of PE Lynda McConville said: “The girls have been so excited about this and what great role models Kate and Helen are. Their being here really gives the girls something to aspire to.”

The event was organised by Kelvin Briggs, with support from Physiofit, Wienholt Bakery and Gleave Homes.