Tea at the Town Hall for underwater hockey stars Rebecca Northover and Zach Tait

Mayor Ian Duckworth, Rebecca Northover, Zach Tait, Mayoress Christine Duckworth

Rebecca Northover, from Littleborough, and Zach Tait, who lives in Wardle, enjoyed afternoon tea at Rochdale Town Hall with Mayor Ian Duckworth, Council Leader Richard Farnell and council cabinet member for sport, Councillor Janet Emsley.

Rebecca and Zach played for the GB U19 underwater hockey teams at the World Championships in Hobart. 

Zach won a silver medal in the men's team that lost 3-2 to France in the final.

The highlight of the women’s teams games was an impressive 5-0 victory over Canada.

Earlier this year, both athletes received council grants to contribute towards their travel, training and equipment costs.

Councillor Emsley said: “Playing underwater hockey requires skill, bravery and dedication. Zach and Rebecca are very talented athletes and both performed superbly at the tournament, proudly representing their country and flying the flag for Rochdale. Everyone at the council is proud of their achievements.”