The success of the England women’s rugby team in the World Cup final is being seen as an opportunity to promote health and wellbeing across North Yorkshire, including in Harrogate.
England defeated Canada 33-13 on Saturday, 27 September, to win the Women’s Rugby World Cup for a third time and achieve a record-breaking run of 33 Test victories.
Several members of the squad have links to North Yorkshire, including Zoe Aldcroft from Scarborough, and Morwenna Talling and Tatyana Heard, who both played for Malton and Norton RUFC.
Their achievements are being celebrated in towns across the county, including Harrogate, where local rugby clubs and schools hope to inspire young players.
North Yorkshire Council’s chair, George Jabbour, said:
“The triumph of the England women’s rugby team is such a magnificent achievement.
“Winning the World Cup at home is a special moment, and we are proud of the squad, including the players with links to our county.
"I hope it inspires more people in Harrogate and across North Yorkshire to get involved in sport".
The achievements of both teams have coincided with a rise in interest in women’s rugby and football, with more girls and teenagers in Harrogate reportedly signing up for local sports clubs.
The council has launched a new sport and active wellbeing service under the Active North Yorkshire banner, bringing all its leisure services in-house.
The service aims to support residents across the county, including Harrogate, to be physically active, with a focus on improving both physical and mental health and wellbeing.
A proposed leisure investment strategy, which could see up to £40 million invested in facilities across North Yorkshire, is due to be considered by the council’s executive in November.
The council’s leader, Carl Les, said the recent successes of England’s women’s teams should be celebrated and could motivate residents in Harrogate and across the county to pursue healthier lifestyles.
He added that the Active North Yorkshire service and the proposed investment plans are intended to provide the best opportunities for participation and wellbeing across the county, including in Harrogate’s schools, sports clubs, and community centres.
Ripon Races to round off season with beer festival
Harrogate volunteers give 180 hours to town centre clean-up
Harrogate women's friendship group celebrates first birthday
North Yorkshire Police to use live facial recognition for first time
Killinghall man given suspended sentence after strangling partner
Former Harrogate metal works site to be transformed into new homes
Harrogate football clubs urged to apply for £20,000 equipment funding
Ripon teen who survived stroke raises £1,000 for hospital
Work begins on £5.8million Fountains Abbey project
Harrogate Town runners complete Great North Run for Community Foundation
National recognition for Harrogate's MAN v FAT programme
Council chiefs back school transport policy despite "legacy of harm" claim
Second home owners challenge North Yorkshire's 100% council tax premium
X Factor legend set to perform at Bilton Club
Harrogate's Sporting Influence Foundation to tackle 24 climbs in 24 hours
Giant vegetables take centre stage at Harrogate Autumn Flower Show
Alpamare waterpark to be sold to 'protect its future' with private investment
Roadworks causing growing disruption in Harrogate and Knaresborough, officials admit
Yorkshire artist brings Harrogate's Old Market Hall back to life
Martin House hosts first children's palliative care conference
