Marlow’s Alex Danson has been included in the Team GB women’s hockey squad for the Rio Olympics.

The 31-year-old is one of eight players to retain their place in the side who were part of the squad which won bronze at their home Olympics in 2012.

The remainder of the 16-strong side will be taking part in their first Olympics which starts on August 5.

Chief operating officer for Great Britain Hockey, Sally Munday, congratulated all the players on their inclusion and insists they will be looking to be successful in Brazil.

“I would like to congratulate all of our athletes who are on their way to Rio for this summer’s Olympic Games,” Munday said.

“Our central programme is exceptionally competitive and I know how hard they have all worked to be selected.

“Their ambitions certainly do not end here, and I would like to wish them the very best of luck this summer.”

While many of the team’s members have not appeared at the Olympics, they have experience in other major competitions, including helping England to European Championship gold in London last year.

Team GB Chef de Mission, Mark England, echoed Munday’s sentiments and believes the side’s mix of experience and youth will stand them in good stead.

He said: “I’m very proud to be able to welcome hockey players from both the men’s and women’s squads to Team GB today.

“In both of these sides there is a blend of Olympic experience and Olympic debutants who have come through in the last four years and who have shown they can compete at the very highest level.

“It’s great to qualify athletes in the team sports, and a tremendous spirit exists across hockey, which has developed and grown during this four year cycle.”