Rochdale ranger to play in rugby world cup

Beth Sutcliffe and Councillor Wera Hobhouse at Hollingworth Lake.

A countryside ranger from Rochdale Council is heading for the Rugby World Cup in Australia where she will play for the Women’s England rugby team.

Beth Sutcliffe, 26, leaves tomorrow (Thursday 29 October) to join her teammates in Brisbane where, on 6 November, she will play in her first international rugby match, against Russia.

Beth has been training hard in preparation of the tournament and has high hopes for her team, who are currently ranked second favourites in the competition, to emerge as champions.

She said: “We have a really good chance of reaching the final this year. We have been training hard; we’re a fitter, stronger, more determined team than five years ago where England made the semi finals.

“I can’t wait to get out there and play. I am very proud to have the opportunity of representing my country.”

Work colleagues at Hollingworth Lake Visitor Centre will be following her progress and supporting Beth from the lakeside.

Councillor Wera Hobhouse, Cabinet Member for Environment and Sustainability said: “Beth is another perfect example of the high calibre of talent we have in the borough. We wish her every success in the tournament and hope she brings the cup back to this cold and pleasant land!”

Beth, a passionate rugby player since primary school, usually plays for the Hillside Hawks in Littleborough when she is not safeguarding the Pennines’ countryside.

She was scouted by England officials at special trials to compete in the World Cup 2008 but will be returning to her post as a ranger when the competition is over.

She said: “I have been really lucky to work with such supportive and encouraging people. I really enjoy working as a ranger with the council as I get to work in an amazing environment - the countryside is my office and you can’t get much better than that!”