West Northamptonshire Council (WNC) greeted four of the international teams competing in the Women’s Rugby World Cup Women’s 2025 during a special ceremony held at Northampton Guildhall on Saturday August 16.
Players, coaches and staff from Ireland, Japan, South Africa and Brazil - who have all arrived in West Northamptonshire ahead of their matches on Sunday August 24, were greeted by WNC’s Chairman and leader alongside community representatives and partners, before exchanging gifts as a ‘gesture of friendship and shared sporting spirit’.
9. Women's Rugby World Cup in Northampton
The sounds of Northants Sings Out echoed around the courtyard Photo: Jamie Wooldridge
10. Women's Rugby World Cup in Northampton
A bespoke wooden shoe last created by a Northampton shoe manufacturer was given to each international team Photo: Jamie Wooldridge
11. Women's Rugby World Cup in Northampton
The players were met by the leader of West Northamptonshire Council, Councillor Mark Arnull, and the Mayor of Northampton, Councillor Jane Birch Photo: Jamie Wooldridge
12. Women's Rugby World Cup in Northampton
The welcome ceremony at The Guildhall Photo: Jamie Wooldridge