ENGLAND football star Beth Mead helped inspire youngsters when she returned to her former school to open a new playground.

The England ladies under-19 striker and Sunderland player, from Hinderwell in North Yorkshire, visited Oakridge Community Primary School to officially open their new all-weather Tigertuft playground.

The FIFA-approved surface has artificial grass and enables children to play a variety of sports all year-round.

Beth said: “It’s great to see a primary school on my own doorstep recognising the importance of sports and fitness – I just wish it had been here when I was at this school.

“This facility will be well used and make a real difference to the lives of the children, ensuring they can stay healthy and active throughout the year”.

The school is already using the area for its after-school football and multi skills clubs as well as daily playtimes.

The visit from the footballer and the new play area received a positive response from pupils at the Hinderwell school.

Year 6 student Riley Craig said: “I love our playground, it is really good for football because there is a proper goal.”

Headteacher Nance Wrigley said: "The children were delighted to see the new playground after the summer break and couldn’t wait to try it out. The low-maintenance turf provides a surface which is suitable for lots of different sports, including football, hockey and tennis so it will definitely be used to its full potential.”

Grants from Hinderwell Parish Council and Cleveland Potash also helped the school to secure funding for the playground.