With the country still celebrating the England Lionesses magnificent victory over Germany to lift the 2022 European Championships, it is hoped that a major legacy of the triumph will be the continued growth of grassroots girls' and women's football here in Hitchin.

Hopes are high for a significant boost to the grassroots game after Arsenal captain Leah WIlliamson led England to glory at Wembley on Sunday.

Hitchin Belles have been leading the way in our area for many years, and the club's highly-respected Gemma Smith was one of many Belles at Wembley, along with her daughter Madison, supporting Williamson and the team.

The FA Charter Standard Belles are a Hitchin success story to be proud of, with membership growing all the time as the number of junior teams rises exponentially.

The renowned Gemma told Hitchin Nub News the morning after attending the memorable match as the Lionesses made history: "I'm buzzing still.

"It was an amazing day. Sunday's victory - and what the Lionesses have done throughout the years - is more than just play football, they've impacted the future of football for every child, every women forever.

"Their memorable victory will go down in history as the day women's football was finally put on the map and given the recognition it deserves."

Sarina Wiegman's side took the lead when Ella Toone lifted the ball over opposition keeper Merle Frohms on 62 minutes, with an impudent chip to put England 1-0 ahead. 

Germany responded though Lina Magull to make it 1-1 and send the game into extra time.

However, as the clock ticked down towards dreaded penalties, the persistent Chloe Kelly forced the ball home with only 10 minutes remaining - as the hosts sealed the victory, to see Williamson became the first England women's captain to lift a major honour.

The Lionesses deservedly celebrated long into the night back at their hotel in Teddington. See our Nub News sister side Teddington Nub News for more here

See Hitchin Nub News soon for our in-depth Up Close feature with Gemma