Equality campaigner Dr Rimla Akhtar has joined the board of the Sports Ground Safety Authority (SGSA).

Dr Rimla Akhtar MBE, the first Muslim and Asian woman on the FA Council, has joined the board along with Janet Johnson, after the pair were appointed by the Rt Hon Karen Bradley MP today.

They will serve three years on the board of the SGSA, which aims to secure safe and enjoyable experiences for spectators at all sports grounds in England and Wales, and campaigns for safe grounds around the world.

Akhtar was awarded an MBE for her contribution to equality and diversity in sport in 2015 and was ranked 15th in the 2015 list of The Independent’s Most Influential Women in Sport.

She has more than 17 years’ experience in the sports industry across the UK and Middle East, and her strategic roles include being Independent Director and Trustee of Kick It Out.

Janet Johnson is a chartered town planner, having specialised in regeneration and economic development in the north east of England.

Her career in local government career spanned almost 40 years, including roles as chief executive of the District of Easington Council from 2004 to 2009 and deputy chief executive of Sunderland City Council. She has also served on the boards of organisations in the education and development sectors.