NORTH-EAST academic Gabrielle Kent has been named as one of the top 100 women in the games industry by an influential gaming publication.

Gabrielle, 37, forged a trailblazing career as one of the few female computer games designers before moving into teaching, where she continues to inspire and pass on her skills to future generations.

The list of the top 100 women in the games industry was published by computer and video games magazine MCV and compiled in association with the Women in Games Jobs network for women in video and online gaming.

The list recognises women from all areas of the games industry working in the UK, from influential leaders to inspirational figures and unsung heroes.

Gabrielle, who is Deputy Head of Games Art and Design at Teesside University, is also the Director of the Animex International Festival of Animation and Computer Games, which is held annually at Teesside University attracting the cream of the animation and games industries and visitors from around the globe.

Gabrielle said: "It's great to be recognised in what has traditionally been seen as a male dominated industry and an honour to be listed among such inspirational women.

"Handheld consoles, mobile apps and casual games are all helping to increase the number of female gamers and we're seeing an increase in girls taking games degrees at Teesside University and attending games events at the Animex Festival. It's brilliant to think I can help inspire them as they work towards a career in the games industry."

Gabrielle worked in an art and design capacity within the games industry for around 15 years, working on console and PC titles for Accolade, Infogrammes, Atari and Midway.