A former pupil of St Michael’s Middle School in Colehill and Wimborne’s QE School has been called up to the England squad for the Euro Championships.

Ben White, who plays centre half for Brighton and Hove Albion, was named by Gareth Southgate for the European Championships after Trent Alexander-Arnold was injured and withdrew.

After studying at St Michael’s, Ben went on to Queen Elizabeth (QE) School before embarking on his football career.

Both St Michael’s and QE are part of Wimborne Academy Trust (WAT) which has a superb sporting record at its schools.

The Chelsea FC player and now European Champions League winner Tino Anjorin attended St Michael’s and QE.

The middle school‘s former pupil James Williams plays professional rugby for Hartpury RFC and was formerly on the books at Sale Sharks.

And Kelly Snook who plays for Southampton FC, swimmer Piers Copeland and Hampshire cricketer Tom Prost also went to St Michael’s.

QE School boasts former AFC Bournemouth player and manager Eddie Howe as an old boy.

Ron Jenkinson, headteacher of St Michael’s Middle School, said: “Obviously we’re thrilled for Ben and it’s taken a great deal of effort and hard work for him to get to this stage.

“He is an inspiration to current pupils and I know they’ll be watching the Euros this summer, cheering him on.

“He was here between 2007 and 2011 and was always talented and clearly had the necessary desire as well.

“Along with the trust’s other sporting success stories Ben’s achievements prove that there is a pathway to professional sport from east Dorset.

“We have some great sports coaches at St Michael’s who know how to get the best out of everyone.”

Katie Boyes, headteacher of QE School said: “Both Ben and Tino attended QE and were supported with their football through our successful Junior Athlete Education programme.

“We are incredibly proud of the achievements of both students.”

WAT chief executive Liz West said: “All our schools promote sport and sportsmanship as part of a rounded education and every success inspires others.”