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Women in Football hosted its first ever event in Yorkshire on 21 March - and judging by the numbers who turned out in force to show their support, it won't be the last!

A diverse audience filled the 1885 Suite at Bramall Lane, home of Sheffield United, who had kindly provided the venue for the night.

WiF board member and Sun sports writer Vikki Orvice, who also happens to be a United fan, kicked off proceedings by recalling her early memories of watching The Blades in action as a youngster before welcoming host for the night, BBC Look North's Tanya Arnold.

The panel of Katrien Meire (CEO Sheffield Wednesday), Richard Caborn (former Sports Minister), Carla Ward (Sheffield Utd Ladies’ first team manager) and Rachel Ruddach (Sheffield Utd Ladies’ captain and longest serving player) were introduced.

The quartet discussed a wide range of topics ranging from the disparity in opportunities for women to progress as coaches (and the prohibitive cost of taking your A license, to questioning both Government and PFA support for the women's game. There were positive discussions about possible solutions to various issues, rather than just highlighting the problems.

The debate was lively, at times feisty, but all in good spirits with plenty of laughter punctuating the evening too.

Women in Football board member Vikki Orvice said: “Since we were formed a decade ago we haven’t had an event in Yorkshire so thought it was about time and appropriate as part of our 10th anniversary celebrations.

"It was wonderful to see so many WIFs, not only from across the county but as far away as Manchester and Derby, support what was a fabulous evening with a lively debate from high profile panellists. We hope it is the start of many similar events across the region.

“Thanks also to Sheffield United for hosting us at Bramall Lane.”

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