A WORLD champion boxer nicknamed "The Silent Assassin" is returning to her old college as an athlete mentor.

Savannah Marshall, who was the first British female boxer ever to win a world title when she fought in China in 2012, will help students at Hartlepool College of Further Education (HFCE).

The 24-year-old studied a BTEC in Sport & Exercise at the college, gaining a distinction, before going to to represent the UK in the Olympics and becoming a Commonwealth champion.

Ms Marshall has returned to help inspire and educate the stars of the future as part of the college’s "TeamHCFE" programme.

Head Coach and Sports Lecturer Ian Clark said “TeamHCFE is designed to bring together all aspiring athletes from across the college, no matter what their sport. We provide the highest level of support including individualised strength and conditioning programming, recovery and rehabilitation, and financial support with kit and equipment. Our aim is to support athletes to achieve both here at the college and in their chosen sport.

"Savannah is living proof that the very top is within reach for those willing to work hard to reach it, and her input and guidance will be huge for our students.”

Ms Marshall will balance her commitments with the GB women’s boxing teams with her role at the college.

She said: “I believe that if you're dedicated and motivated and have the will to achieve, then you will achieve your dreams. I am thrilled to back at the college, where it all started for me, helping in any way I can."