THE lady captain of Orsett Golf Club is organising an evening aimed at inspiring women and girls to take up the sport - and other challenges.

Val Mathewson has invited inspirational professional musician and Transplant Games Ambassador Elizabeth Hosford to return to the borough to be its keynote speaker at the event marking International Women's Day.

Liz, originally from Grays, has won medal after medal at the British Transplant Games and has competed around the globe at the World Transplant Games.

Liz Hosford.

When she was 20 she underwent a life-changing operation after her mother donated her a kidney. She said: "I can never thank my mum enough. She gave me the gift of life twice and she gave me a brilliant kidney.

"There's no point having a transplant and just sitting still. It's such a fantastic opportunity to have an extra chance at life."

Val says: "It's a chance to be inspired by Liz's incredible journey and passion for breaking barriers in sports and life."

The event, entitled 'Girls Just Want To Have Fun', is described as an evening of fun, food and information on opportunities for women and girls to get involved with golf-related sports activities within Thurrock and the wider South Essex area.

It will take place on Friday, 7 March at 7pm at Orsett Golf Club.

Val adds: " The club has sponsored this event as part of our commitment to accelerating action for gender equality.

"The cost is £25 per person and includes a two course sit down celebration dinner and fun activities to break the ice and generate conversation about how we can improve our health and well-being through active participation in sport."

Val can be contacted by email at [email protected].