Bedale AFC are making plans to create a new women’s football team for season 2025-2026.

Claire Temple at Bedale High School runs girls football teams at every age group and Bedale Juniors have long championed girls football. They welcome new players at all ages from toddler sessions up to U15.

Girls aged over 16 must either travel to other clubs in the region or some drop out of the sport. With the support of Heck! Food through their community fund, it is hoped to identify people who may be interested in a playing, coaching or an administrative role next season.

Interest in the women’s game has never been higher with the success of the England Women in the Euros and locally with two ex-Bedale High School students, Lily Crosthwaite and Katie Kitching playing professional football at Durham City FC and Sunderland AFC respectively. Katie has recently returned from playing three games in the Paris Olympics for New Zealand and both have been in school to inspire the next generation of female footballers.

FA coach Michelle Brown is very keen on seeing if there is interest in the town to form a team next season and this is an appeal for any interested players, or anyone who is able to help in any way, to contact Michelle at bedaleladies@gmail.com. There will be an initial session at the Heck Stadium at the Bedale Sports Club and Community Centre on Wednesday, September 11 between 6.30pm-7.30pm for anyone who wants to help in any way, to come along and show their support.