BROMSGROVE Paralympic hero Lauren Rowles has had her summer success at Rio celebrated with a gold board at Bromsgrove Railway Station.

The former North Bromsgrove High School pupil and her partner Laurence Whiteley excelled as they clinched gold in the mixed double sculls at the 2016 Paralympics.

And her triumph has been celebrated by London Midland, who hope the striking new board will inspire the next generation of Great British athletes.

London Midland commercial director, Richard Brooks, said: "We want to celebrate a great summer of sport but we also want to help future sporting stars.

"We hope the gold running in boards will also inspire more young people too aim for the stars."

Sutton Coldfield and Hemel Hempstead stations have also had gold boards installed following the success of Olympians Laura Unsworth and Max Whitlock respectively.

Kidderminster’s Claire Cashmore, Northampton’s Ellie Robinson, and Stratford’s Megan Giglia make up the remaining six honours at the London Midland Stations.

Lauren Rowles wrote on Twitter: "Can't believe the sign at Bromsgrove train stain painted gold in honour of me! Thank you to @LondonMidland for such a thoughtful gift."

The train operator has also launched “Your Sporting Chance” – a new programme designed to help sports stars of tomorrow by promoting health and wellbeing.

Under the scheme, sports kit and equipment for youth and junior sports teams, clubs or groups will be donated as nominated by London Midland employees.

Mr Brooks added: "Your Sporting Chance empowers and encourages our colleagues to get more involved with the 150 communities we serve across the country."