AN aspiring sports star has landed a prestigious scholarship from a leading sports institution.

Rochelle Petty, 19, was awarded a Carnegie Sports Scholarship by Leeds Metropolitan University at a special ceremony at its Headingley Carnegie Stadium.

The scholarships recognise outstanding sporting achievement with many students having competed at national or international level.

Earlier this year Miss Petty, from Thirsk, also became one of only four cricketers to receive the Advanced Apprenticeship in Sporting Excellence (AASE).

Her scholarship will enable her to further her academic studies while taking advantage of the excellent sports facilities at the university.

Carnegie Sports Development Manager, Ian Smyth, said: "This is the seventh year we have operated the Carnegie Sports Scholarship scheme.

"These outstanding students deserve to succeed and, at Leeds Met, we intend to help. Many previous scholars have progressed to full international honours and I am sure the class of 2008/09 will do the same."