Ripon City Ladies celebrate milestone anniversary

The club already had cause for celebration last month, having secured promotion from Division Three of the West Riding County Women’s Football League.

Manager Malcolm Bethell has commended players for their dedication over the last year, and joined them at a special party in the clubhouse on Mallorie Park to mark their milestone one year anniversary.

He said: “We have come so far as a club in just a short space of time. I know the girls are thrilled to have reached this milestone, and it’s brilliant that we have. They all work so hard.

“I remember when we started out as a club, I said we would play a few games and enjoy ourselves, just see how it goes with no pressure. I said it didn’t matter whether we won or lost.

“So to be where we are now is fantastic. We’re very proud.”

City Ladies player Ellie Dickson had her head shaved at the one year celebration to raise money for the Little Princess Trust - a selfless gesture that manager Malcolm said reflects the ethos of the club.

He said: “Everyone’s really got behind Ellie with her fundraising, it’s been great. And what an amazing thing for Ellie to do, to raise money and help others.

“As a club we are keen to support good causes and reach out to the community whenever we can.”

Ellie has raised almost £2,000.

The team also recently played Ripon City Netball Club to raise money for Macmillan Cancer Support in loving memory of Barry Colman, who had been one of the city’s biggest champions of women’s sport. Are you celebrating an achievement? Email [email protected] with your Ripon news, or call 01423 707505.