Surrey Storm’s netball captain Katy Hughes has announced her retirement from the sport. 

The 29 year-old has been part of the squad in the Vitality Netball Superleague since 2011 and captained the side for the past two years. 

She won the Superleague title in 2015 and 2016 in the duck egg blue outfit. 

She said: "Thank you to everyone who has been part of my netball journey.

"Thank you to the coaches and players who inspired, supported and pushed me to work harder and achieve more.

"A huge thank you to the Storm supporters, walking out in front of our home crowd is incredible - your enthusiasm and noise is inspiring.

"You have been there throughout triumphs and defeats, it has been an honour playing in front of such passionate fans.

“I will definitely miss being out on court playing in duck egg blue, but I am looking forward to a new job and new adventures. Forever Storm.”

Director of Storm Mikki Austin added: “Katy defines Surrey Storm – passionate, driven and dedicated!

"Katy has been an integral part of the club for over a decade, having grown through the youth ranks to excelling at Superleague, winning two championships and going on to captain the club – there isn’t much more one can achieve throughout their domestic career.

“We’re so excited for your next chapter, but gutted that means the Hughes name will no longer be in the corner of our changing room.”

Storm teammate Sophie Hankin said on Twitter: “Absolute boss!!!! El capitano and her amazing career, lucky i had her. #DropThatMicGirl.”

Assistant coach Emily Nemeth added: “If you want to know what it takes to make it... Have a look at @_katyhughes_ ... Relentless, determined, kind, passionate. Always gave 100%, never made excuses, worked her way up from bottom to top. Will always be in my dream team!”

Yasmin Parsons, who also plays for Storm, said: “Best Captain ever! Plus also one of my very good friends. 

"I’m going to feel very lost without you... who do I share the back seat of the bus with? Or remind me to get coffee? You’re batman to my robin!!! What am I going to do without my PIC? You’ll be missed loads! Ly Capt! X”