By Jill Stocks
PCSO Julie Richardson is a much valued member of the Horsforth community, keeping the streets safe with a smile and a friendly face.
But what many won’t realise is that as well as her work and her family Julie is a committed and talented sportswoman.
This October she will swap the Town Street beat for the South of France as she joins fellow squad members of the Great Britain Police Rugby League Association women’s team for their inaugural tour. It’s a unique and cherished opportunity for a unique and cherished local figure.
The team, who are unbeaten since their formation 18 months ago, will be travelling to the town of Albi in the South of France between October 2 and 8, taking part in training sessions there before a tour match in the local stadium.
And being selected for the tour squad has given Julie an opportunity to finally fulfill her childhood dream of representing her country.
“For me personally, it means a lot more than just playing. I started rugby when I was five years old, but had to stop at ten, and at that point I thought the dream of playing at a high level was over.
“So to now have the chance to represent Great Britain, especially later in life, feels like something I don’t take for granted. It’s genuinely a childhood dream coming back around.
“We’ve recently been given the opportunity to tour France, and I’ve been selected for the squad, which is something I’m incredibly proud of. It’s not just about rugby — it’s about representing where we come from and making the most of an opportunity that doesn’t come around often.”
The tour also presents local businesses with an opportunity to sponsor Julie and the team for this unique event.
Various options are available for businesses big and small to play their part in supporting the tour, and promoting their business on a bigger stage at the same time.
“As a team, we’re also looking for sponsorship support to help make the tour possible,” Julie said.
“We understand that local businesses are under pressure, so we aim to give real value in return—whether that’s brand visibility through social media, logos on our training kit, travel gear, and presence throughout the entire journey, from departure to return.
“It’s a chance for businesses to be part of something positive, representing Great Britain internationally.”
When the GBPRLA women’s team was formed in October 2024 Julie jumped at the chance to continue her lifelong sporting journey. And now teams are queueing up to challenge the as yet undefeated team.
“What makes it special is the mix of players—some with no rugby background at all, others who’ve played at a very high level. Despite that, we’ve come together incredibly well and we’re currently unbeaten, which says a lot about the culture and commitment in the squad.”
And whilst they are ruthless on the pitch they do show their softer side off the pitch. The team are often seen volunteering at Leeds Children’s Hospital, and Julie enjoys supporting local community initiatives in Horsforth, such as MHA Horsforth Communities, and can often be seen at their events.
Julie’s first sponsor for the tour was her old school friend Emma Blackwell. Having recently set up her own mortgage advice firm, Perfect Mortgage Advice, after years as a mortgage broker, Emma was quick off the mark to not only promote her new venture but also to support her childhood friend.
“I think it’s amazing what Julie is doing!” she said. “Me and Julie went to school together. I am a season ticket holder for Leeds Rhinos and have loved rugby league since I was a kid.
“I have been a mortgage broker for 10 years and after setting up my own firm Perfect Mortgage Advice with a colleague I thought sponsoring Julie would be a great way to give back. I helped Julie with her mortgage when she bought her house last year and have helped other friends of hers too.”
There are various ways to get involved with sponsoring the GBPRLA tour and promote your business on the international stage, ranging from matchday teamwear branding to sponsorship of teamwear and travel kit and equipment.
If you would like to sponsor Julie and the team you can email Jill Stocks. Or get in touch with the GBPRLA directly. You can follow their facebook page here.
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