The owner of Royston's independent bookshop Bow Books welcomed football author Carrie Dunn, whose first book he published 20 years ago.

Carrie was reunited with her former publisher Paul Bowes at the bookshop earlier this month, as she promoted her latest book: 'Woman Up: Pitches, Pay and Periods - The Progress and Potential of Women's Football'.

She was joined at the shop by former Lioness, Karen Farley, who played in England's first-ever official Women's World Cup in 1995.

Also in attendance were Amy Cooper, the captain of Royston Town's women's team, and Giles Parnwell, chair of Royston Town Youth FC's committee.

One of Carrie's previous books -  'Unsuitable for Females: The Rise of Lionesses and Women's Football in England' - was shortlisted for the Football Book of the Year at the 2023 Sports Book Awards.

Royston Crow: Paul Bowes with Carrie's first book, which he publishedPaul Bowes with Carrie's first book, which he published (Image: Clive Porter)

Carrie's first book, 'A Brand New Bright Tomorrow: A Hatter’s Promotion Diary', celebrated Luton Town's emergence into Division Two of the Football League in 2002, and was published by Paul under his Book Castle imprint when he worked in Dunstable.

Amy Cooper said: "It was so lovely to meet both Carrie and Karen.

"We instantly clicked, laughing, joking, and chatting about football in general.

"I was telling the other ladies that I am currently out of action due to having recent ACL reconstruction on my knee after a bad tackle towards the end of last year.

"It was interesting to hear that Karen also suffered a similar injury when she was last playing. It is quite a common occurrence in women’s football.

"It’s a pity that they couldn’t have stayed over to watch our game on the Sunday."

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Paul, who established Bow Books in Angel Pavement as Royston's only bookshop earlier this year, said it was a "privilege" to host Carrie at his new premises, and that he was "delighted" to welcome Karen Farley,

He added: "I am sure all of those who met them from the many teams being hosted at all age levels by our community focused town club will have been inspired.

"Conversing with the two of them was truly infectious, as will be reading Carrie’s books."