NETBALL player Ella Gibbons joined forces with NSPCC Scotland to teach youngsters about recognising abuse and speaking out.

The Renfrew athlete, who plays for Strathclyde Sirens, helped deliver a Speak Out Stay Safe assembly at Craigholme Junior School and Girls Senior School in Glasgow.

The assemblies help children to recognise abuse and feel confident about speaking to a trusted adult about it.

Ella, who was on the Scotland team at this year’s Commonwealth Games in the Gold Coast, said: “The NSPCC’s Speak Out Stay Safe campaign is a really amazing cause and the impact it has on children and young people in terms of giving them the knowledge to recognise abuse is so important.

“The message is very powerful, and I am delighted the Strathclyde Sirens are on board to promote this vital message. The cause is something I am very passionate about.

“It was really great to talk to the pupils about my career, especially the highlight of representing Scotland at the Commonwealth Games.”

Pamela Mitchell, head of pastoral care at Craigholme Junior School, said: “We value the fantastic work and commitment of the charity to empower and help children across Scotland to learn how to keep themselves safe.”