Pride of Preston: Dick, Kerr Ladies F.C (1917 - 1965)
In 1921 the Football Association effectively banned women from playing, the ban lasted almost 50 years. The story of how the Dick, Kerr Ladies defied the ban is both inspiring and remarkable. Ordinary Lancashire Lassies at their very best.
The Dick, Kerr Ladies were formed at a Munitions Factory in Preston during the First World War. They played their first match at Preston North End on Christmas Day 1917 in front of 10,000 spectators and raised £600 (almost £50k today) for wounded soldiers being cared for at the Moor Park Military Hospital. They set the football world alight during the early 1920s and went on to become the best in the world.
Their story will be told by Gail Newsham, author and historian for the Dick, Kerr Ladies. Her book ‘In a League of their Own’ was first published almost 30 years ago. There is no-one in the world who can tell their story like Gail. Prepare to be moved, inspired and proud of these pioneering women.
This event is part of the celebration of Women's History Month at UCLan.
"They shone like diamonds through some dreadful times in our history, they brought joy and pride to a country ravaged by war, we will never see their like again."
— Gail Newsham, author of ‘In A League Of Their Own’
Women's History Month
Women’s History Month is taking place from Wed 1 to Fri 31 March 2023. There are lots of exciting events for the community.
Find out more