A woman living with Down's Syndrome who set up a dance company in 2009, has been honoured for her work and dedication to sport and exercise.

Jen Blackwell, from Chorley, was selected, along with 49 other people, to be honoured in the UK's first Mover List, compiled by Lucozade Sport.

Ms Blackwell was chosen by a panel of big named stars from the world of sport, including heavyweight boxer Anthony Joshua, and England Lioness footballer Nikita Parris.

Ms Blackwell, 37, who founded the Accrington-based charity, Dance Syndrome after she failed to find opportunities to pursue her career ambitions of becoming a dance leader, said: "Dancing is my life, and I am passionate about dance and about supporting people like me to have opportunities in the dance world.

"Getting recognition on the Lucozade Sport’s Mover’s List shows that people with learning disabilities can do amazing things with their lives if given a chance."

The list highlights the amateur sportspeople who are helping get the UK more active, and includes a 27-year-old instructor who combines yoga with paddleboarding; a 35-year-old reformed gang member who organises community BMX rides, and a 75 year-old IronGran triathlete who set up fitness classes for OAPs.

New research from Lucozade Sport that shows 75 percent of people have made a conscious effort to exercise more regularly and for longer in the past year, with 73 percent saying their motivation to move more is to keep physically fit, and 58 percent saying they undertake sport and exercise to improve their mental health and wellbeing.

Marketing Director at Lucozade Sport, Hannah Norbury said: "The Movers List celebrates the unsung heroes and heroines who are selfless in their commitments to helping communities move more.

"Our research has unearthed a diverse list of movers across different activities, who are all united with a passion to get people active and help others discover the benefits and joy of movement.

"We hope the list inspires people to find their own communities and move more."

England Lioness footballer and Movers List judge, Nikita Parris, said: "Behind every athlete is a team of people who have given their time and energy – often for free.

"The UK would be far less active without these people so I am delighted to be part of The Movers List."