The athletes were selected through Asda and SportsAid's "Sporting Chance" initiative, which supports young athletes financially.

The scheme sees each athlete "adopted" by their local Asda, and provided with funding for their training and equipment.

Romero, who won silver in rowing in Athens 2004 and then claimed a cycling gold at Beijing 2008, spoke of her hopes for the next generation of aspiring British athletes

"I hope that I can encourage the athletes, especially those from sports which aren't always seen as 'mainstream'," she said.

"When I started, events such as cycling were never heard of on the news and now look at it – they are amongst our most successful Olympic events.

"Old Trafford is also renowned for sporting success so I think it's the perfect setting for the day."

Asda's Fiona Campbell-Reilly, added: "In addition to financial support, we wanted to give them a unique opportunity that would add real value to their careers.

"We hope the young athletes enjoy being mentored by Rebecca; a true gold medal winning star and role model, and I hope it inspires them for the rest of the year and beyond."

SportsAid's Chief Executive Tim Lawler was similarly enthusiastic about the impact of Romero's contribution on the programme's participants.

"For them to emulate Rebecca's success, it is vital we recognise their talent and help them in the right way," he said.

"At such an exciting time for British sport, we owe it to the next generation to provide them with the opportunity to reach their potential and the partnership between SportsAid and Asda does exactly that."

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