Women's Rugby World Cup 'boosts' town's economy

The England team arrived at Franklin's Garden on 30 August for their match against Samoa, which they won 92-3

The hosting of six Women's Rugby World Cup matches in a town has delivered a "significant boost" to the local economy, a council said.

More than 48,500 fans attended games at Northampton's Franklin's Gardens, according to West Northamptonshire Council.

Fan zones in Northampton Market Square drew "record-breaking crowds", with footfall at the Grosvenor Shopping Centre increasing by 20%.

If the Red Roses secure a place in the final on 27 September, a big screen will be put up in the square and a celebration will be held to mark the occasion.

Northampton's 15,000-capacity stadium hosted six ties between 24 August and 7 September - including England v Samoa - and saw fans supporting Brazil, Spain, Ireland, Italy, France and South Africa spend time in the town.

England are due to play their semi-final with France at Ashton Gate in Bristol this Saturday.

Fan zones have been held in Northampton's Market Square during the Women's Rugby World Cup

The council said the tournament's impact had been felt "beyond the stadium" with the "town centre buzzing with activity and delivering a significant boost for the local economy".

It said the Grosvenor welcomed more than 120,000 people in the first week of September - the highest number outside of the busy December period for more than 18 months, and a 20% rise compared with the same week last year.

"The tournament also delivered a significant boost for local hospitality and businesses, with four international teams staying in West Northamptonshire, seeing hotels benefitting from long-term team stays of up to a month," it said.

Crowd enjoyed seeing France beat South Africa at Franklin's Garden on 7 September

Mark Arnull, leader of West Northamptonshire Council, said: "We've seen a positive impact across our town centres, with a welcome boost for local businesses and the wider economy.

"Events like this really demonstrate the value of bringing international sport to West Northants.

"The success of the tournament is thanks to the fantastic volunteers and everyone who has worked tirelessly behind the scenes."