Derbyshire Police officer chosen for 'once-in-a-lifetime' opportunity

PC Amelia Williams said playing in the match would be something she would remember forever

A Derbyshire Police officer is going to represent her home country in a remembrance football match.

PC Amelia Williams will represent Australia in an Aussie Rules football match on Anzac Day on 25 April in the French town of Villers-Bretonneux.

Anzac Day commemorates the Australian and New Zealand Army Corps who served in World War One, and those who have served in the military since.

PC Williams, 24, described the call-up as "a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity".

The match is part of a series of annual events taking place in the town where the Australian National Memorial pays tribute to Australian soldiers who died in World War One.

The Sir John Monash Centre at the Australian National Memorial in Villers-Bretonneux

The force said Ms Williams was picked to play for the Australia team based upon an essay, video clips, her family connection to the military, and her community work in coaching children Aussie Rules football.

Being born and bred in Whyalla in South Australia, she said: "When you step on the field, you're not just playing for yourself.

"You're playing for your teammates, their families, their friends, your family and you're being watched by the military personnel and their friends and family back home.

"It's heartwarming, but it can be daunting. It's a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity, and something you remember forever."