As England Women celebrated a win in their Rugby League World Cup fixture against Papua New Guinea on Wednesday evening, another landmark occasion was also being marked at Headingley Stadium in Leeds.

Over 400 people gathered for a special Rugby League Pride of the Lionesses event which recognised women who have made outstanding contributions to the game, including Sally Milburn and Joanne Hewson from Askam, and Liz and Allie Kitchen, and Sandra Wade, from Barrow.

Sandra even made the journey all the way from Australia to be reunited with her fellow team mates.

The event honoured over 100 former GB and England Lionesses, who played in the 1990s and early 2000s.

They were presented with their caps and heritage numbers, for the very first time, by former Lioness, and member of the Women’s Rugby League Hall of Fame, Brenda Dobek, and former GB coach Jackie Sheldon.

The event was supported by BBC sports reporter Tanya Arnold, and introduced by Clare Balding President of the Rugby Football League.

At the event 71 former GB, and 43 England players received their caps and heritage numbers. In addition 12 dual internationals, who played for GB and England, each received two caps.

Sally Milburn, who was one of the first players ever to be inducted into the Women’s Rugby League Hall of Fame, said: “The Pride of the Lionesses event was amazing - seeing all the former lionesses after 26 years.

“When we got together it was as if we had only been together yesterday and that’s what team spirit and friendship is all about. You can’t buy that and it will stay with me forever.

“Receiving our caps and heritage numbers was the icing on the cake and very special. We did it because we loved the game and have now made history. Along with being included in the Women’s Hall of Fame, I still have to pinch myself.”

The Pride of the Lionesses event was the long-held dream of former Rugby League referee, Julia Lee, who set up a heritage project called Life with the Lionesses’ earlier this year. The project aims to engage with the wider community, both inside and outside of Rugby League, and to deliver a programme of activities that will celebrate the history of the women’s game.

“It was fantastic to see everyone, finally, getting the recognition they deserve,” said Julia.

“These women are the pioneers of women’s Rugby League and have truly paved the way for the young players of today.”