Melanie C - Melanie Chisholm Backs Sporting Campaign

The Spice Girls star, who was nicknamed Sporty in the band, is backing British newspaper The Sun's new campaign for extra physical classes off the back of the London 2012 Olympics.

Chisholm also admits she is keen for her three-year-old daughter Scarlet to follow in her footsteps and take an interest in sporting activities.

She says, "If my little girl grows up wanting to be the next (British athlete) Jessica Ennis then I couldn't be happier. Sport is an essential part of the curriculum. Schools are under pressure to get results but academia isn't for everyone, and I think we need more vocational options for kids.

"Team sports teach kids how to work together and create a sense of camaraderie. It's also a great way for kids to make friends. At school I loved track and field, but I was also in netball team and the hockey team.

"Everyone can shine in something. Whether it's running, throwing, netball or hockey, everybody has a talent. Many people flinch when they think back to their PE lessons. But that's why we need some options that are more fun, so school sports can be enjoyable for everybody. What's so great about sport is that it's something you can continue into your adult life. If school hadn't introduced me to exercise then who knows? Maybe I wouldn't be so sporty after all."