A FORMER Victoria Education Centre student was invited to the royal garden party at Buckingham Palace for her contribution to community sports.

Gemma Mitchell, from Bournemouth, said: "It was a huge shock because nobody had told me I had even been nominated."

Wheelchair-user Gemma launched a community club for boccia players two years ago, after getting hooked on the game while a student at Livability Victoria Education Centre in Poole.

Boccia, related to bowls, is contested by athletes with severe physical disabilities.

Gemma, who travelled to London for the garden party with mum Alison and brother Ben said the highlight of the day was chatting to Prince William.

"I was so proud to have been commended for my contribution to disabled sport.

"It is not every day you speak to the future king, and to have him show interest in our club was incredible.

"I even invited him to visit if he is ever in the area."

The club Gemma established now numbers ten people and five coaches.