YOUNG Finnish football player Anni Ruuskanen brought her dribbling skills to Craven College.

An exchange student from the Kouvolan Lyseon Lukio High School, Anni has been in Skipton to inspire and train with other young female players at the Skipton seat of learning.

It follows the recent visit to Finland by the college's football academy.

Luke Swindlehurst, college football tutor and manager of Preston North End Women's Football Club, wants to see women's football as successful as men's.

“We have a long-standing relationship with education providers and the sporting community in Finland," he said.

"This has allowed Anni to come to Craven College as an exchange student and sample football and education in a foreign country."

Anni said she had enjoyed her time in Craven and planned to return in the future – although she found life very different.

She added: “I've been welcomed to Craven College and it has been an enjoyable experience. Things in England are very different to Finland, but I've enjoyed my time here and will definitely return in the future."

A UEFA licensed coach, Luke added: "Our football students take an educational visit to Finland every year and we are very proud of the experiences and benefits this trip provides. We will be continuing to strengthen our links and maximise each student visit to its full potential. Anni has really integrated into life here at college,”