The resilience of the Chester-le-Street Amazons women’s football club – which boasts nearly 200 players on 13 teams – is something to be admired, especially the way in which they rallied around and stuck by two players who were diagnosed with cancer.

Lydia Ward and Emma Henderson have battled through life-altering health challenges due to breast cancer, each undergoing a mastectomy while continuing to support their teammates.

The duo has not only shown strength in their health battles but also inspired their team to victory, with Emma returning to play throughout chemotherapy and Lydia coming back post-surgery to score goals and lead her team to the championship.

(Image: Durham County Council) Supported by head coach Shaun Ward, Lydia’s dad, the Amazons have turned their struggles into strength, creating a remarkable bond that has extended beyond football.

They are now channelling their platform to advocate for change in young women’s healthcare and campaigning for better health awareness, and have plans to visit schools and give talks.

Lydia and Emma both took to the stage to accept the Sports Team/Person of the Year award with pride.

“Our team isn’t just about football, it’s bigger than that,” Lydia began. “We have both had similar experiences. People look at us and think, ‘how have they had that?’. You never think it’s going to be you.

“When Emma told me of her diagnosis I was shocked and thought I could never go through what she was. But then I found my lump. If it wasn’t for Emma, I don’t know whether I would have got the right diagnosis and whether or not I’d be standing here today.”

(Image: Chris Booth) Emma added: “As soon as I got my diagnosis I told the whole team. We should be open and honest about these things.

“This award is not just for us, it’s for the whole team.”