THE hidden history of women's football is to be brought to light by a project involving Trafford and eight other Euro 2022 hosts.

The council is teaming up with the FA and others for the project, which has received more than £1 million in funding, including £500,000 from the National Lottery.

It is an important year for women's football, as Old Trafford and eight other stadiums across England host Euro 2022 and The Lionesses mark their 50th anniversary.

But what is often forgotten is that its history goes back 140 years.

As a part of the project, information on England players and matches since 1972 will be researched, recorded and shared in women's football as it is in men's football.

Messenger Newspapers: Dick, Kerr Ladies (Image: Courtesy of the National Football Museum).Dick, Kerr Ladies (Image: Courtesy of the National Football Museum).

Eilish McGuinness, CEO of The National Lottery Heritage Fund, said: "Thanks to money raised by National Lottery players, the hidden history and unheard voices of women’s football will be shared for the first time, capturing the full story of the beloved sport.

"We’re delighted to support this project which will give fans and players the chance to celebrate the history of women’s football and communities to discover their connections to the game."

Trafford is an important area in the history of women's football.

More than 100 years ago, tens of thousands of spectators turned up at Old Trafford for a game between Dick, Kerr Ladies and Bath Ladies.

A number of other renowned teams played in the area's parks and, before the outbreak of the Second World War, White City Stadium hosted an international between England and Belgium.

A century after the game between Dick, Kerr Ladies and Bath Ladies, Manchester United Women played for the first time at Old Trafford.

As well as information on England players and matches, it is this history that the project is aiming to bring to light in exhibitions, talks and a range of other activities.

Cllr Liz Patel, Trafford Council’s executive member for culture and leisure, said: "Football and Trafford have been synonymous for more than 100 years, but it's high time more is known about the women’s game in our borough.

"If you have any memories or memorabilia relating to women’s football in Trafford, we'd love to hear from you so your story can be shared and we can learn more."

To contribute to the project, contact Trafford Local Studies on trafflocals@trafford.gov.uk.