England hockey fans will be seeing double this year as twin sisters from Truro High School join the ranks of the UK Lions under-14 national squad.

Year 9 sisters Katie and Lucy Day, from Penzance, impressed the national assessors and coaches at the UK Festival of Hockey, leading to them both claiming sought-after spots to represent their country on the pitch.

24 out of the country’s top 144 sportswomen were selected from regional teams to play for the UK Lions squad.

The girls played their first national indoor matches late in London this December and over the next 12 months will be competing in tournaments in Rotterdam, Belfast and Cardiff.

Lucy said: “It was a great experience to compete in London and I’m really excited about what’s coming up. I’ve never been on a full scale hockey tour before and I really can’t wait to play in Holland with the team.”

Katie said: “It’s going to be hard work but I am so excited to be playing at this level. Whilst it seems a long way off, Team GB is our ultimate goal and playing for the Lions is just one step closer to making that dream come true!”

The twins train with Penzance Hockey Club for two days every week alongside their national hockey commitments. To facilitate this rigorous schedule, they spend at least six hours on the pitch every week. Real team players, they also participate in school fixtures and regularly support the teaching staff with the sports clubs for younger pupils.