ELLESMERE Port’s only Olympian will not bring home a medal – but she has already inspired girls across the UK to take up basketball.

Johannah Leedham’s high-scoring performances were not enough to secure a win for Team GB’s women’s basketball squad.

But the former Ellesmere Port Catholic High School pupil’s standout displays caught the eye of the viewing public and she has been inundated with youngsters telling her she has inspired them to take up the sport.

Jo, 24, who played for Ellesmere Port Panthers until she was 16, paid tribute to the unprecedented support the team had during their matches.

She said: “I cannot say enough good words and thank the crowd enough for the support we received, it has been amazing.

“Even though we weren’t getting the results for them they cheered every point and stuck with us through it all.

“I hope this kind of support stays because we need it if we are to help the sport grow and it really does make a huge difference.”

Jo’s proud parents Kim and Sue, of Hillfield Road, Little Sutton, had travelled to the capital to watch their daughter in action as Team GB’s captain.

But Jo, who plays basketball in Australia for Bulleen Boomers, has had an impact on many more.

One Twitter user Keeley Dargue wrote: “@joey_leedham13 has inspired me to go back to school, join basketball team and make something out of my life! Thank you!”

Becky Crawford added: “joey_leedham13 has totes inspired me loads to join a basketball team.”

Jo herself welcomed the basketball fans she helped create, tweeting: “Lovin the tweets about so many ppl startin to play basketball! U guys won’t regret it! I’m glad u were all inspired!”