AN INSPIRATIONAL project to encourage young children in remote areas of Nepal to enjoy sport is being spearheaded by a former Dorset school pupil.

Emily Shaw, 18, who attended Bryanston School near Blandford, is developing the Right2Run project, which has proved to be a great success.

A showcase athletics event recently took place at Rangasala Stadium in Pokhara involving 250 pupils from seven schools in remote regions of the Asian country.

A former running champion and cross-country athlete, Emily used her gap year and passion for the sport to develop Right2Run in collaboration with Right4Children, a charity which works to improve the lives of disadvantaged Nepalese children and families.

The project has provided direct support to pupils at remote schools and led to the introduction of weekly running sessions covering teamwork skills, running drills and games.

And working closely with Nepalese shoe brand Goldstar, 190 children have been provided with proper footwear for running.

Emily said: "I know from my own personal experience that a morning running session can change one’s day and help to increase energy and concentration for the day ahead.

“And that’s exactly what the children involved in Right2Run have said to us.

"I’ve learnt so much over the past four months and I’ve really enjoyed working with the young athletes. 

"Getting up when it’s pitch dark and freezing cold at 5.30 in the morning has not proved to be a problem for them. 

"After some warm up games, they then run a few laps around the village before sitting their school exams later that morning!

"There are many socio-cultural barriers for youngsters to cross in order to participate in sport. This is especially true for young girls.

"My hope is that the Right2Run project will continue to help pupils overcome these barriers and that they will use the skills gained from their sporting endeavours to break away from the cycle of poverty."

Emily has also agreed to remain involved with the expanded Right2Run programme this year.

"I am truly in awe of Emily’s infectious enthusiasm and commitment to the Right2Run project,” added Douglas Maclagan, co-founder of Right4Children.

“She has achieved so much in just a few short months and has definitely stamped her mark during her time in Nepal and I know that so many recognise what a tremendous difference she has made.”