Golden girl Kiera Byland has been nominated for an award celebrating work towards gender equality.

The six-time gold medalist is up for the "One to Watch" category of the Northern Power Women Awards.

Entering their fifth year, the awards honor those who support equality, and work towards creating gender balance in organisations across the North.

Simone Roche MBE, founder and CEO of the organisation behind the awards, said: "It’s great to see that so many are continuing this important work, which is obvious from the impressive list of shortlisted nominees this year.

"Indeed, each person on this shortlist is a role model who can inspire both current and future generations and help create the step-change we need to advance gender equality."

Tweeting about her nomination, Kiera said: "I feel so feel so honoured to be in the same category as CEOs and directors.

"I am so proud to represent, look what a young person with an intellectual disability can do with the right support."

The Bromley Cross girl has several learning difficulties, including dyspraxia which makes it hard for her to plan and control physical movements.

Keira, who lives with her supportive parents Jacqui and Brian, started taking part in sport when she was 12, and has never looked back.

She threw herself into swimming and cycling, winning three gold medals in the Special Olympics in 2015, and a further three at the World Games in Abu Dhabi last year.

She also represented Great Britain at the 2019 International Federation for Athletes with Intellectual Impairments (INAS) Global Games in Brisbane in October.

Whilst Keira didn't manage to defend her world titles at the games, she was able to bag another top spot, and smashed her 5km time trial personal best by more than 30 seconds.

Award winners will be announced on March 16 at a gala awards night and dinner at the Manchester Central Convention Complex.