Britons have named Dame Kelly Holmes as the country's greatest female role model in a new poll, edging out heptathlon champion Dame Jessica Ennis-Hill. Holmes, who rose from working in a sweet shop and driving Army trucks to become a double Olympic champion, won gold in the 800m and 1,500m at the 2004 Athens Olympics and still holds British records over 600m and 1,000m. The poll, commissioned by British Gas, highlights ongoing concerns about the visibility of women in sport, with 65% of adults saying women deserve greater recognition and 66% of parents feeling children's media does not sufficiently portray ambitious, successful girls.

The survey of 2,000 people placed the Princess of Wales third, followed by actress Emma Watson and singer Adele, with footballers Jill Scott and Alex Scott, activist Katie Piper and former Paralympian Ellie Simmonds also cited as inspiring figures. The findings coincide with the launch of a new illustrated children's book, The Things' Football Adventures, part of British Gas's partnership with WSL Football, featuring a foreword by Euro 2022 winner Jill Scott. Some 92% of respondents believe seeing female footballers represented in books, television or media could encourage more girls to take up sport.