Suffolk soprano Laura Wright is rolling up her sleeves and taking part in rugby PE lessons at schools nationwide next month to encourage children to take up the sport.

With England hosting the Rugby World Cup this year, the 24-year-old, an avid rugby player, is using her role as the official anthem singer of England’s rugby team to help drive up participation levels among youngsters, particularly girls.

The scheme coincides with her current UK tour. She will take part in games lessons and invite pupils to join her on stage during her concert, where they will join her in singing Jerusalem.

The classical singer visits Alde Valley Academy in Leiston on Friday, March 27, ahead of her concert at the Ipswich Corn Exchange two days later.

Ms Wright said: “I loved playing all kinds of sport when I was at school. However, rugby was not an option; a missed opportunity I feel. I have found the sport now in my 20s but if rugby was introduced to women at a younger age, their potential could be realised sooner and for greater results.

“A sport with such complex rules and the discipline needed takes time to learn and I feel it has just as rightful a place as hockey, tennis and netball.”

The All Schools Rugby campaign is run by the Rugby Football Association (RFU) in partnership with Canterbury – the official sportswear supplier for the Rugby World Cup 2015.

Chris Stephenson, CEO of Canterbury, said: “Laura has been a real champion of the programme and we are delighted she will be visiting schools and spreading the word in her unique fashion, blending her two passions of music and sport.”