THE good work being done in Bury Rugby Club’s fledgling girls and women’s set-up has not gone unnoticed, with five members of the squad recently earning a county call-up.

Woodhey High School pupils Katherine Townsend and Anna King, along with Ella Walsh, of Bury Church High School, recently turned out for Lancashire Under-15s in a defeat against Roses rivals Yorkshire at Doncaster Knights Stadium.

Team-mate Katlin Chadwick was also called up to the u15s squad, and while she was unable to make the opening game will get a chance to play later in the season.

Megan Bretherton is another to catch the eye of the Lancashire selectors, and she is due to feature for the u18s over the winter.

Phil Kay helps to organise the girls and ladies sides – u15s, u18s and senior – at the Radcliffe Road Club.

“I know the girls who have already played for Lancashire really enjoyed it,” he said.

“We put them forward for trials earlier this year and they were really excited to get the call. It’s a great shot in the arm for the club, which has only been going for a year.

“We have more than 30 females across all of the age groups taking part in training under the floodlights here ever Monday from 6.30pm.

“The women’s team is just starting up, while our u15s and u18s both play in the Lancashire Cup and have regular friendlies against other local sides.

“We are also trying to develop an u13s side and have had a lot of support from the RFU.

“What has happened here has been mirrored across the country.

“The number of girls and women taking up the sport has really grown over the past year or so and it is going from strength to strength.

“Obviously, we are always looking for more members though, so all players, no matter their experience, are welcome to join us for training.”

For more information contact Phil on 07768 525317.