CUMBRIA’S sporting heroes have been praised for their exploits on the international stage.

Cllr Christine Bowditch, chairwoman of Cumbria County Council, led the applause at a full meeting of the council in Kendal on Wednesday.

Singled out were England cricket hero Ben Stokes, from Cockermouth, who masterminded the world cup win against Australia, and England footballer Georgia Stanway,  from Barrow, who reached the semi-final of the Women’s World Cup in France.

Carlisle-born Helen Housby, of Wigton, a professional netballer and one of the best shooters in the sport, was also recognised for her role in the England team taking bronze at the netball world cup and failing to miss a shot in a game against South Africa.

Also given a name-check was Kendal golfer Caitlin Whitehead, aged 16, who came runner-up in last month’s English Girls Open Amateur Golf Championship.

Whitehaven RLFC’s promotion-winning season – overseen by manager Gary Charlton, a highways worker for the county council – was also applauded.

Cllr Bowditch, the Labour member for Belle Vue, Carlisle, said: “This summer has seen some of the county’s sporting heroes shine and we should recognise those who have really pushed themselves and their sporting achievements.

“We are so lucky in Cumbria to have so many sporting heroes and today I have mentioned just a few.”