Your Harrogate Radio

4:00pm - 6:30am

Email the studio

Kylie Minogue

Can't Get You Out Of My Head

Listen Live

Harrogate girls finish third in national football finals

Tuesday, 19 May 2026 08:51

Saltergate footballers at the ESFA Pokémon Girls Primary Cup National Finals.

Pupils at Saltergate Schools in Harrogate have been crowned the third best girls' primary football team in England after an impressive run to the national finals.

The girls travelled to Stoke to compete in the ESFA Pokémon Girls Primary Cup National Finals last week, battling through the tournament to secure a third-place finish against some of the country’s top school teams.

The achievement marks a proud moment for the Harrogate school, with staff praising the squad for their determination, teamwork and sportsmanship throughout the competition.

A spokesperson for Saltergate Schools said:

“We are super proud of all of you. What a credit to Saltergate you are.

"Keep playing football and doing the things you love.”

The school also thanked the English Schools’ Football Association for hosting what it described as a “fabulous tournament” and for giving the girls “another amazing opportunity.”

The tournament forms part of the wider Pokémon Primary Schools’ Cup, which sees more than 5,000 school teams and over 50,000 children from across England take part each season.

The girls’ competition begins with district rounds before progressing through county and regional stages.

The best teams from around the country then qualify for the National Finals, held annually at Stoke City FC.

More from Local News

Harrogate estate agent donates goals to support Saltergate's football stars

Harrogate-based estate agency Verity Frearsons has donated brand-new football goals to Saltergate Schools in recognition of the outstanding success of the school’s U11 girls’ football team.
How Knaresborough Bed Race began: Founder recalls the first event 60 years on

As thousands prepare to line the streets for this year's Great Knaresborough Bed Race, one of the event's founders has reflected on how a simple fundraising idea became one of North Yorkshire's most iconic traditions.
Harrogate paddling pool to reopen to visitors this weekend

A paddling pool in the centre of Harrogate is set to reopen to the public this weekend after extensive surveys have ensured that it is able to be enjoyed this summer.
Free Fuel Friday: Harrogate resident is eighth winner to scoop free tank

An eighth winner has claimed a full tank of fuel as part of our ongoing ‘Free Fuel Friday’ promotion.
Lloyds Bank set to close Harrogate branch

Lloyds Bank has announced plans to close its Harrogate later this year.
Harrogate BID to bring 'taste of the town centre' to Great Yorkshire Show

Harrogate BID is preparing to showcase the very best of the town at this year's Great Yorkshire Show, bringing a mini version of Harrogate’s high street to one of Yorkshire’s biggest events.
Harrogate finalists recognised at Yorkshire Choice Awards 2026

Several Harrogate individuals and businesses have been recognised at this year's Yorkshire Choice Awards, celebrating the people and organisations making a difference across the county.
Harrogate MP presses Prime Minister on improving IBD care

The MP for Harrogate and Knaresborough has raised concerns about variations in care for people living with Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) during Prime Minister's Questions this week.
Cookery theatre lineup revealed for Harrogate Food and Drink Festival

Organisers of the Harrogate Food and Drink Festival have confirmed the complete Cookery Theatre programme for their sixth annual celebration.
Harrogate's new 'Luminarium' opens to visitors

A giant walk-through art installation is now open on The Stray in Harrogate.
Harrogate bus company announces changes to timetable

Bus passengers across Harrogate and the surrounding area are being advised to check before they travel, with timetable changes coming into effect next month.
Harrogate Railway junior team looking for new sponsor

A junior football team at Harrogate Railway FC is looking for a local business to sponsor its new kit ahead of next season.
Harrogate groups invited to apply for share of £74,000 funding

Harrogate Town Council has launched a new grants programme worth £74,045 to support charities, voluntary organisations and community groups across the town.
Firm, fair and friendly policing for 'odd' World Cup

North Yorkshire Police is ready for an ‘odd’ World Cup amid a zero-tolerance warning on anti-social or criminal behaviour.
Popular Knaresborough clothing business to open new store in Otley

A popular independent clothing retailer in Knaresborough is set to open the doors to its second shop this week.
Harrogate Town announce new forward signing

Harrogate Town have announced the signing of talented forward Ciaran McGuckin on a permanent deal.
Harrogate boxing club launches mental health workshop for young fighters

A Harrogate boxing club is teaming up with a leading mental performance coach to help young athletes develop the mental skills needed to succeed both inside and outside the ring.
Harrogate charity to unveil stunning mosaic designed by disabled artists

A Harrogate charity is set to unveil a stunning mosaic of iconic artist Frida Kahlo, designed and created by disabled artists from across the area.
Which roads will be closed for the Knaresborough Bed Race?

Motorists are being urged to plan ahead as a series of road closures come into force across Knaresborough for the annual Bed Race.
Provenance Collection announces new Managing Director after offloading three sites

Provenance Collection has announced the appointment of a new Managing Director after selling three venues from its North Yorkshire portfolio.