Norfolk’s Lauren Hemp has been named Women’s Player of the Year by the Football Supporters’ Association.

The Manchester City and Lionesses forward Hemp, from North Walsham, ended Arsenal's domination of the category since its creation. Hemp saw off competition from fellow nominees Grace Clinton (Manchester United), Erin Cuthbert (Chelsea), Lauren James (Chelsea), Khadija Shaw (Manchester City) and Lotte Wubben-Moy (Arsenal).

“I just wanted to say a massive thank you for this award,” said Hemp, who also used to play for Norwich City Women. “Looking back at the season we were unfortunate to come so narrowly close to winning the league but we did qualify for the Champions League.

"We've now reached the knockout stages this season so we have an important backend of the season and I can't wait for - hopefully - many trophies coming our way."

Kevin Miles, chief executive of the Football Supporters’ Association, said: "We're delighted for Lauren, who was a vital part of City's title push and is a stalwart for the Lionesses, her hard work paying off with a Ballon D'or nomination back in September."

Hemp is currently recovering from knee surgery which ruled her out of England friendliues against the United States Saturday and Switzerland on Tuesday night.