Rugby World Cup trophy goes on tour ahead of games

The silverware will travel to public locations ahead of pool games for the women's tournament in Northampton

It is hoped the Women's Rugby World Cup (WRWC) trophy going on tour will inspire females to get involved in the sport.

The silverware will travel to public locations in Northamptonshire and Milton Keynes ahead of six pool games being hosted at Franklin's Gardens.

People will have the opportunity to see the trophy up close and learn how they can take part in the lead-up to the event.

Northampton Saints chief executive Julia Chapman said: "We're delighted to welcome the official trophy and look forward to seeing local people turn out to continue the countdown to the tournament with us."

Franklin's Gardens has hosted the England Women's team twice in the last three years

The WRWC begins on 22 August and ends with the final taking place on 27 September at Twickenham.

The first match hosted in Northampton will be Ireland v Japan on 24 August.

Ms Chapman said: "Bringing matches to the home of Northampton Saints later this year is fantastic for the club and town, and we hope it will inspire the next generation of female players.

"We are confident that welcoming the World Cup can create a lasting legacy of engagement with the sport."

Where the trophy can be seen:

• Monday, 17 February: 09:00 GMT to 10:00 at Franklin's Gardens and 10:30 to 15:30 at Rushden Lakes Shopping Centre

• Tuesday, 18 February: 14:00 to 15:30 at Derngate Theatre in Northampton

• Wednesday, 19 February: 09:00 to 15:30 at Milton Keynes Shopping Centre

• Thursday, 20 February: 09:30 to 11:30 at Weston Favell Library and 12:30 to 18:30 at Northampton Market Square

• Friday, 21 February: 09:00 to 15:30 at Northampton Museum and from 17:00 at the Loughborough Lightning v Ealing Trailfinders match at Franklin's Gardens