A BRIGHT schoolgirl struck a few blows for the sisterhood on her way to winning a public speaking contest.

Louise Fernandes, a pupil at St James the Great School, in Thornton Heath, wowed a panel of judges with a speech to coincide with International Women's Day.

The 11-year-old was crowned the winner of the Loud and Proud competition organised by Soroptimist International, a group that aims to promote and advance the role of women in society.

Louise's five-minute speech was inspired by Anna Eleanor Roosevelt, the former First Lady of the United States.

The schoolgirl said she was fascinated by Roosevelt's views on the importance of education and how opportunities for women have increased over the years.

Louise, who wants to be a brain surgeon when she is older, said: "The competition made me realise the important role women play in our society today and how we must always be open to learning.

"I felt proud and elated to have won against the stiff competition."

Each school taking part were only allowed to enter two pupils for the competition, held at the Croydon Council chamber.

Louise impressed a host of judges, including Mayor of Croydon Avril Slipper, with the quality of her speech, which she practised before the big day to members of her family and in front of a mirror.

Competition organiser Penny Veness said: "Louise spoke clearly and projected her voice, delivering her speech with originality and personality.

"Louise engaged the audience with eye contact and hand gestures; she was just outstanding."

Gavin Barwell MP, who was among those in the audience at the March 8 event, will be escorting Louise and guests to the House of Commons as part of her prize.

She also received a voucher to spend at the Whitgift Centre.