OLYMPIC hockey medallist Chloe Rogers truly inspired a generation when she spent a day with schoolchildren.

Students from Greensward Academy, in Hockley, were treated to a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity as their hockey lesson was taken over by the London 2012 bronze medallist.

Rogers, from Great Dunmow, took charge of a training session and joined in a game with Year 9 GCSE PE students at Greensward, and went on to talk to children at Plumberow, Hockley and Ashingdon primary schools.

Her mission mirrors that of the Games, to inspire youngsters to take up sport.

“I have always been into sport and played hockey from a young age as my dad also played,” said Rogers, who has 162 international caps.

“My school teachers were really keen on hockey so there were lunchtime and after-school clubs which I went to as well as playing for a local club every Sunday.

“I remember Karen Brown coming to visit us at school and showing us her bronze medal from the Olympics.

“She knew I was keen on hockey and introduced me to Chelmsford Hockey Club. She inspired me and if I can do the same for just one or two people, that will be brilliant.

“I’m not even concerned whether it’s hockey they choose to play, so long as they give a sport a go.”

PE teacher Nicola Clarke-Irons said: “It has been brilliant having Chloe here and training with our students.

“For the students to have a local girl come and tell them about her Olympic experience is wonderful as they can really relate to her. “I know the girls will be thinking and talking about today for a while to come.”

Chloe’s visit was hosted by the Academies Enterprise Trust.