Rochdale’s Rugby League World Cup bid moves to next stage

Jon Dutton, Rugby League World Cup Host Cities Manager (centre) with from left to right: John Patterson, Rochdale Borough Council, Ryan Bradley, Community Rugby League Manager, Louise Spencer and Mark Wynn, Rochdale Hornets.

Rochdale’s bid for the 2013 Rugby League World Cup has moved a step closer, following a visit from the Rugby Football League.

Rochdale Borough Council, Link4Life and Hornets Rugby League have teamed up with AGMA (The Association of Greater Manchester Authorities) to host a match in Rochdale during the tournament.

If the bid is successful, Spotland Stadium could play host to a first round game in the event.

Inspectors met with bid partners this week, before taking a guided tour of Spotland Stadium.

Jon Dutton, Rugby League World Cup Host Cities Manager said he knows how much a part in the tournament would mean to Rochdale.

He said: “This month we are doing initial site visits across the country. Rochdale’s plans are interesting and it was good to meet the bid partners.

“One of the things we want to see is that each stadium portrays the competition in the best possible light and we see full stadiums for the matches, so marketing is going to play a big part.”

Towns across the country will be hoping to be chosen to host games, provide training camps and accommodate teams from around the world. England and Wales are co-hosting the event, which will be held in October and November 2013.

Council Leader Colin Lambert, said: “Rochdale has a rich rugby history going back to 1871. Our warm friendly welcome to visitors, along with our excellent sports, leisure, tourist and travel links put us in a fantastic position to be successful.

“I know we would give visiting teams and their supporters a tremendous welcome and a unique World Cup experience.”

John Patterson, Executive Director, Rochdale Borough Council added: “I am sure the people of Rochdale would support a world cup game being held in Rochdale, and located on the edge of Manchester I believe we are in a fantastic position.

"Showcasing some of the world's most exciting talents will leave a lasting legacy, so Rochdale Hornets, the council and our community partners are keen to gain maximum exposure and economic benefit for all.”

Spotland Stadium, also home to League One Rochdale AFC, is recognised as being one of the best grounds of its size. Last year it hosted the Women’s Premier League Cup Final and in 2003 and 2004 the National Rugby League Cup Final.

Later this year an official broadcast partner for the event will be announced, with host towns and cities for the Rugby League World Cup expected to be confirmed by the RFL in November.