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05
Oct 2023
GALLERY: Rachel Daly returns to Harrogate's Rossett School
England footballer Rachel Daly returned to Rossett School in Harrogate today to rename a 3G sports pitch in her honour.
Rossett's most famous former student brought the place to a standstill as pupils and teachers turned out to cheer her.
Headteacher Tim Milburn greeted the Aston Villa striker at 10am before she was whisked away to meet staff and tour the building.
When she re-emerged about half an hour later, pupils formed a guard of honour as she walked from the school buildings, accompanied by her dog Dexy, to the pitch.
When they got there, Rachel — wearing white trainers and clothes by her street fashion brand sponsor Hera — joked about how much Dexy loved the attention and thought it was for her.
Dexy was certainly a hit but Rachel, who was accompanied by her family, was the undoubted star on a rare return to the school she left in 2010.
After a short speech from Mr Milburn, Rachel removed a black blanket to reveal a sign for the newly named Rachel Daly 3G Pitch. Behind her, a group of girls played football on the pitch. She said:
Rachel, the current PFA Players' Player of the Year, spoke about coming home with sand burns after playing on the old astroturf pitch and how Rossett and Harrogate held a "special place in my heart".
Read more:
- Pub landlord councillor creates tribute to Rachel Daly’s dad Martyn
- Celebrations mark Rossett School's 50th anniversary
Mr Milburn described Rachel, who started out at Killinghall Nomads Junior Football Club, as an inspiration not only for Rossett pupils but also for anyone who uses the sports facilities. He added:
Although the school has been quick to honour Rachel, North Yorkshire Council has yet to indicate whether it will support a call from Killinghall Nomads, supported by the Stray Ferret, for Rachel to receive civic recognition.
The Conservative-controlled council said two months ago it was urgently considering a policy on how to recognise achievements by local people.
The Stray Ferret asked Cllr Simon Myers, whose portfolio oversees such matters, what progress had been made since then but has not received a response.
Here are some images from Rachel's return to Rossett today.
Headteacher Tim Milburn welcomes Rachel Daly to the school.
Pupils form a guard of honour.
Dexy the dog was never far from Rachel's side.
Rachel Daly, alongside the Rachel Daly 3G Pitch.
The Rossett Lioness and the sign she unveiled.
Current Rossett footballers look on as Rachel talks to her family.
With current footballers on the 3G pitch.
Dexy takes centre stage again.
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