Bolton’s mayor hosted a special reception this week to celebrate the remarkable achievements of the Bolton Wanderers Women’s football team this season.
The team’s outstanding success in both the Challenge Cup Final and the North West Women's Regional League (Division One North) has earned them well-deserved recognition.
Bolton Wanderers Women made history with a dominant 5-1 victory over Accrington Stanley in the Challenge Cup Final, followed by securing the title in the North West Women's Regional League (Division One North) after a 3-0 win over Preston North End.
To help celebrate this outstanding achievement for Bolton’s sporting scene, the mayor invited the team to a special parlour reception to honour their hard work and dedication.
Mayor of Bolton, Andy Morgan said: "On behalf of the entire borough, I want to extend my heartfelt congratulations to the Bolton Wanderers Women’s football team on their fantastic achievements this season.
“The team won promotion, went the whole season undefeated, and also won the Challenge Cup.
“The team’s hard work and dedication have brought pride to our town, and we are thrilled to celebrate their well-deserved success.
“These talented athletes have not only achieved great things on the field but have also become role models for others in the community.
“This is a moment of great achievement, and I wish the team continued success in the future."
Leader of Bolton Council, Cllr Nick Peel added: "Bolton has a rich history of sporting excellence, and the triumphs of Bolton Wanderers Women are another shining example of the talent and determination that thrives in our community.
“Their success on the pitch serves as an inspiring example for others, showing what can be accomplished through hard work and teamwork.
“It’s important that we continue to support and encourage the next generation of athletes, and the achievements of these incredible women serve as a great motivation.
“This victory is a reminder of the importance of getting active, and I hope it motivates more people to get involved in sport and pursue their own passions, leading to healthier, more active lives."
Myles Smith, Manager of Bolton Wanderers Women, said: “On behalf of everyone associated to Bolton Wanderers Women, I would firstly like to thank the Mayor and Mayoress for their kind invitation on Monday evening.
“To be able to spend time in their company in the Town Hall to celebrate our success this season was an incredible honour and one we are hugely appreciative of.
“This invitation is a reflection and reward of the work gone on – across the board – from this special group of players and staff to achieve something so special in our first season of working under club operations.
“The Mayor and Mayoress have been to a number of our games this season, and for this team to have their continued support this season has been truly inspiring.
“We thank both once again for an unforgettable evening.”
A special mention goes to Katie Holt, team captain and Bolton Council’s Library and Museums team member, whose leadership on the pitch has been instrumental in the team’s success.
Katie Holt, Captain of Bolton Wanderers Women, said: “It was incredible to spend time as a squad with the Mayor and Mayoress on Monday.
“The team has worked so hard this season, and the time, effort and commitment shown by both the players and staff has been incredible and has without doubt contributed to our success on and off the field.
“Winning the league and promotion has always been the number one priority for us this season, but to also bring home the Challenge Cup to make it a double-winning campaign in our first season under club operations is extra special.
“To be able to spend an evening with the Mayor and Mayoress, and senior members of the council, is an incredible honour and we thank them for their support this season.”