Bolton welcomes French Rugby League World Cup 2021 squad

There was a certain je  ne sais quoi about Bolton Town Hall this week as they welcomed the French international Rugby League team who will be staying in the borough during the world cup.

Town hall chiefs staged a reception for the team and the civic building was lit up  the colours of the French Flag.

They were given a tour of the Mayor’s parlour and a speech from leader of Bolton Council, Cllr Martyn Cox.

Cllr Roger Hayes was one of the councillors present and says having the team stay in Bolton raises its profile on the international sporting stage.

The French Rugby League team on the town hall steps. Credit: Bolton Council (Image: Bolton Council)

He added: “I think they’ll find Bolton to be a very friendly place to stay, although perhaps a little colder than they’re used to.

“It shows that we have excellent facilities. We have excellent accommodation facilities, training facilities and medial facilities if they need them.

“It’s also a wonderful stadium. We’ve hosted rugby games there in the past when Wigan played one of the Australian teams. It’s a wonderful venue.

“It shows that we are on the sporting stage, not just that we are a name within football.”

The University of Bolton stadium will host Bolton’s new visitors against England on Saturday, October 22.

“France are one of the better teams in the tournament and we’re happy to welcome them here. Of course, I hope England win,” Cllr Hayes added.

“We are very proud of our links with France and out twinned town of Le Mans.”

“They were all very pleasant and, having met them."

French Rugby League players in the Mayor's parlour. Credit: Bolton Council (Image: Bolton Council)

Cllr Hayes was present at Wembley Stadium during his time as deputy mayor of Bolton, promoting the town as a worthy place to host Rugby League World Cup 2021 teams and matches.

The Rugby League World Cup was delayed due to the pandemic. It will kick off with England and Samoa’s men facing off at St James’ Park, Newcastle, this Saturday, October 15.

There will also be the women’s and wheelchair tournaments played alongside the men’s tournament.

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