Rebecca Porritt (22), of Sawley, has been chosen to take part in the British Council's Young Advocates' Programme at the Beijing Paralympics this month.

On her return, and with the support of the International and National Paralympic Committees, Rebecca will be encouraging schools to organise sporting events with a paralympic component. She will also share her knowledge with the next generation of young advocates.

Rebecca said: "I will be participating in a series of workshops and receive training in paralympic knowledge and disability awareness, enhanced leadership, organisation and communication skills. We are also hoping to work with people who have been left with disabilities after the earthquake in Sichuan."

Currently studying for a Modern Languages Degree at Newcastle University, Rebecca will stay at the Chinese National Paralympic Training Centre, where the Chinese paralympic athletes have been training all year alongside some international athletes.

In addition to her degree, Rebecca also works for the Student Support Service at the Universities of Newcastle and Northumbria supporting disabled students in their lectures and seminars as well as during their exams by taking notes and assisting them around the university.

Rebecca has thanked to Maxwell's Cafe/Wine Bar, Dawson's Department Store and Garay's Hair Salon, Clitheroe, for providing sponsorship to help fund the trip. She also thanked staff at the Spread Eagle at Sawley and Thwaites Brewery for their support.