WHEN two Bulls supporters heard some of their women's squad may suffer financial hardship after playing for their country in the ultimate honour, they decided to do something about it.

Bradford fans Pete Smith and Thomas Fynn came up with a fundraising idea to help towards costs for the ten players from the all-conquering Odsal team who represented England in the World Cup in Australia.

Money was raised via online auctions in dedicated Bulls supporters groups, with signed shirts and personal training sessions with a member of the current Bulls men's squad among the prizes up for grabs.

While they fell short of their £2,200 target, both Pete and Thomas were grateful for fans' efforts, which raised £865.

Thomas said: "When we set the target we always knew it was a bit ambitious, but you need big goals and a good target.

"Pete and I are very humbled by everyone who donated. We had one bidder who bought two shirts in our auctions and we can't thank him enough for his generosity, but most of all thanks to everyone who did their bit."

The money was handed over to some of the Bulls' World Cup players at Odsal when one of the highest bidders, Peter Beardsley, also received his shirt.

The Bradford ladies went unbeaten last season, winning the Challenge Cup and Super League title.