Watford-born Olympic gold medallist Anthony Joshua has been picked as one of eight Team GB ‘Greats’ to act as a role model and help inspire the nation ahead of Rio 2016.

The 25-year-old shot to prominence in London three years ago by winning gold in the super-heavyweight division.

Now Joshua (13-0) has been selected by the British Olympic Association (BOA) to help generate a swell of support for Team GB athletes travelling to Brazil.

Joshua is among exalted company which includes Ben Ainslie, Becky Adlington, Sir Chris Hoy, Denise Lewis, Sir Steve Redgrave, Sarah Stevenson and Beth Tweddle.

The Greats will attend Team GB events in the build-up to next summer’s games and offer advice to athletes and their families.