A SUFFOLK official has taken part in a match to celebrate International Women’s Day.

Ella Karkoska, who is 18 and from Ipswich, was invited to be an assistant referee at the Isle of Man International Women’s Day Festival.

She ran the line for the Isle of Man international women’s senior team internal friendly at the National Stadium, known as The Bowl.

Wednesday’s match was the main showcase event to help promote the women's game and followed on from Youth matches.

Ella (pictured above) was selected to take part in the fixture by The FA after her Emerging Talent Programme regional leader nominated her for the fixture.

It was a flying visit for Ella, who arrived at 10am on the morning of the match and returned home 24 hours later.

She said it was a really enjoyable event and experience, giving her insight into the travel and preparations that professional match officials undertake.

Ella said: “The best part was talking to different people about their experiences within football, also being able to interact and advise young girls that are interested in pursuing referring, and are looking to do the referee course.”