JANE Leonard is set to play a key role in the Rugby World Cup later this year as England aim to lift the coveted trophy on home soil.

The 26-year-old, from Uttoxeter, has already won six caps for England women's team.

And, after suffering the heart-break of a shoulder injury which ruled her out of the 2006 World Cup, the open-side flanker is now set to fulfil her rugby dreams.

"All the girls in training always talk about the 2006 World Cup final against New Zealand in Canada," she said.

"To hear them and not feel part of it is disheartening, but to take part will be amazing.

"It's been my dream to play for England in the World Cup – the pinnacle of the sport."

England will announce their final 22 for the World Cup in May.

Gary Street, national team head coach, said: "She returns to the squad after some time off. I am sure she will play a big part."

England's four-team pool at the finals includes Kazakhstan, Ireland and the U.S.

The 2006 beaten finalists start their campaign against the Irish on August 20.

Leonard expects England to breeze through the group, with the U.S. the main threat, before a probable semi-final showdown with either Australia or defending champions New Zealand.

The Kiwis will start the tournament as favourites.

But Leonard helped England claim a morale-boosting 10-3 victory over New Zealand last November.

She said: "Obviously, winning that game was a big boost.

"It has eased the pressure a little bit and going into this year we are even more confident. But New Zealand will have gone away to analyse our game and we'll be doing the same."

Leonard, a lance corporal with the Royal Engineers, plays and trains with Lichfield Rugby Club and has had spells with London Wasps.

And the Army has given the England star time off to prepare for the World Cup.

As a thank-you, Leonard now wants to raise funds for charity Help for Heroes, which provides support to injured servicemen and women.

She is offering her services to do a variety of tasks, including dog walking, house-keeping and any other work, in return for payment which will go directly to Help for Heroes.

Leonard, who served in Iraq with the Royal Engineers for five months in 2009, said: "The Army have given me time off to prepare for the World Cup, so I want to do something for Help for Heroes."

Anyone interested in helping her raise cash for Help for Heroes are asked to call her on 01889 562979.