Tees Valley’s bid to host fixtures for the Rugby League World Cup 2021 could enhance the regional economy by more than £5million, it was revealed today.

Speaking to businesses at an event to outline the benefits of a winning bid, Tees Valley Combined Authority’s head of culture, Linda Tuttiett, said that hosting matches could give the region an economic upswing of more than £5million.

Also addressing the audience was Jon Dutton, Chief Executive of the Rugby League World Cup 2021, who highlighted the transformative effect that holding matches had made elsewhere.

Jon Dutton, Chief Executive of the Rugby League World Cup 2021, said: “The RLWC2013 set new records for economic impact and media reach that will be increased again at England 2021. An expanded event footprint will attract more live spectators, encourage domestic tourism and longer overseas visitor stays.

“We would encourage businesses to come to support the bid and ensure that they are prepared to fully take advantage of the opportunities a successful bid would bring.”

The region has a long history of engaging with both Rugby and other international sporting events. Mowden Park has previously hosted the New Zealand All Blacks, with head coach Steve Hansen calling their facilities “outstanding” and “one of the best in the world”. The Riverside Stadium has also been home to major international European football matches.

Lee Rust, Managing Director of Darlington Mowden Park said: ‘’We’re delighted to be a key part in the bid to bring the 2021 Rugby League World Cup to our region. Working in partnership with local authorities, Tess Valley Combined Authority and Middlesbrough Football Club we believe we have a compelling bid for organisers to consider.’’

‘’As a Club we’ve worked exceptionally hard over recent years to develop the Northern Echo Arena into a venue that can attract and deliver major events for the North East, including concerts and international sport. We hosted to the New Zealand All Blacks during Rugby World Cup 2015, something which the region got behind. Our aspiration now is to go a step further and secure games in another major sporting World Cup.’’

The Rugby League World Cup 2021 bid is being put together by a partnership of Tees Valley Combined Authority, Darlington Mowden Park, Middlesbrough Football Club and Middlesbrough Council.

For more information and to back the bid, please contact commercial@mowdenpark.com