Norwich stadium names pitch after Lioness Lauren Hemp

The Manchester City and England forward returned to her roots to officially open The Lauren Hemp Pitch at The Nest, known as the home of Norwich City Women FC and Norwich City Community Sports Foundation.

The development was completed owing to more than £2.8 million funding from the Premier League, The FA and the Government’s Football Foundation.

This pitch is among 30 Football Foundation-funded sites set to be named after the Lionesses following their UEFA Women’s EURO win and inspiring FIFA Women’s World Cup performance.

This pitch is among 30 Football Foundation-funded sites set to be named after the Lionesses (Image: Submitted)

The Lauren Hemp Pitch will offer a platform to girls across the age spectrum and skills range, including accommodating an FA Emerging Talent Centre.

This provision promises a pathway to the Norwich City Women’s team for aspiring footballers.

Lauren Hemp said: “This area has a very special place in my heart.

"I’m so pleased to see that the next generation of girls in the area will have the best chance possible to follow their own football journeys thanks to the amazing facilities here at The Nest.

“It’s been brilliant to meet all the players today and hear how much the Lionesses’ success has meant to them all.

As well as football, The Lauren Hemp Pitch will be used to support other sports including the Run 4 Me initiative (Image: Submitted)

"I feel so proud of the whole team for inspiring women and girls to play football.”

Ian Thornton OBE, chief executive officer of the Community Sports Foundation, said: "Lauren is a great role model to all young footballers in Norfolk and our hope is many more can grow and develop like Lauren did, now aided by the incredible footballing facilities here at The Nest.”

In addition to football, The Lauren Hemp Pitch will also support a range of other sports, including the Run 4 Me initiative, focused on enhancing mental health through running.