Women's Rugby World Cup comes to Northampton
The first World Cup matches take place at the Saints Franklin's Gardens later as Ireland v Japan and South Africa v Brazil.
Tens of thousands of Women's Rugby fans from around the world are expected in Northampton today.
The first World Cup matches take place at the Saints ground this afternoon, as Ireland verses Japan kicks off at midday then South Africa face Brazil at 14:45.
Six matches will be played in Northampton across the competition with England's Red Roses taking on Samoa next Saturday 30th.
Sammy Moore is a former player and coach of the women and girls Old Northamptonians teams. She says the women's game has gone from strength to strength:
"As a supporter of Women's Rugby I can remember when there may have been a few hundred in the crowd for an international twenty years ago. And now we have sell out crowds.
"After a game you'd have the opportunity to chat to players in the bar, and now that's virtually impossible, so that in itself is amazing and is testimony to how the game has progressed."
Fans visiting the town will be greeted by a knitted mural thanks to the local Women's Institute. It was the brain child of Chris Carr, Chairman for Northamptonshire County, Federation of WI's.
Teams from over 50 WI's have created a Welcome to Northampton sign, as part of their 'yarnbombing' project. They've also decorated from the train station to Franklin's Gardens with knitted rugby players and scenes, to go along with the flags and banners.
"I started counting how many balls of wool we were using, and I've lost count as it's thousands."
Chris says it's about showcasing the WI and the town:
"it's putting the WI on the map and showing what a great organisation we are and what we can do and how we can have impact in the community. Because whilst we're talking about Saint James and Franklin's Gardens, actually members across the county have done post box toppers and things so it's about affecting your community and having an impact in communities.
"And recognising what the WI does. We can help show Northamptonshire what a great county we are. We're one of those quietly under sung counties and not always recognised, and hopefully this will help put us on the map."
Northamptonshire Police say they have stepped up patrols around the fan park in Market Square and the games, to help keep people safe and prevent and detect crime.
Detective Chief Superintendent Rich Tompkins, who is leading the operation, said: “It’s really exciting to see the Women’s Rugby World Cup coming to our county town, and I’ve no doubt our home-grown fans will give a warm welcome to everyone travelling here to support their teams.
“We’ve been working with our partners and event organisers for months to ensure a safe and smooth-running event for everyone to enjoy, and we’ll have dedicated officers patrolling every match to offer help and assistance to anyone who needs it.
“The Saints regularly play in front of capacity crowds at Franklin’s Gardens without any incident, and we’re expecting similarly positive match-day behaviour from fans at the World Cup matches.
“We’ll be issuing personal safety advice as a preventative measure, and anyone planning to attend any of the events with criminal intent can expect to be dealt with swiftly and robustly.”
But England rugby union fans have been left frustrated, as a supply chain error has left official shirts unavailable for purchase.
Kit manufacturer Castore has confirmed that the jersey has sold out online, with stock only available at match venues.