Devon 'on global platform' as hosts of world cup

Exeter is one of eight host cities for the Women's Rugby World Cup

The Women's Rugby World Cup will put Exeter and Devon "on the global platform", one of the region's tourism bosses has said.

The city is one of eight host cities for the tournament, with seven games due to take place at Exeter Chiefs' Sandy Park stadium, including two quarter finals.

More than 300,000 tickets have been sold for the matches being held across eight venues, stretching from Sandy Park to the Stadium of Light in Sunderland.

Sally Everton, director of Visit Devon, said Exeter being a host city for the Women's Rugby World Cup was "wonderful" for the tourism industry.

There is a designated fan zone within Exeter's Princesshay for the Women's Rugby World Cup matches

"I think women's rugby has really taken off in the last few years, it's on national news, and the fact that England's hosting this crucial event, which is brilliant, and Exeter being a host city is wonderful for us."

Ms Everton said the event would "raise the profile" of Exeter and Devon.

She added: "Exeter themselves have got a strong women's team...so I think the fact that Devon is on the global platform is really good news, and anything like that can really boost our awareness across the world, so I'm delighted having that here in Devon."

Andy Coxon said the rugby was a "massive boost" for Exeter

Andy Coxon, managing director of The Standoff bar, said the event was a "massive boost" for the whole city.

"It's the whole event, it's not just going to watch a rugby match," he said.

"We're blessed with a fabulous cathedral, you've got a beautiful river, there's lovely places to go visit as well as just watching rugby which I think makes Exeter a perfect location."