A REFEREE born in Bangor and from Llandudno has been honoured for her contribution to women's football.

Cheryl Foster also earned 63 caps for Wales before becoming a FIFA referee in 2016.

In 2023, she became the first Welsh referee to officiate at a World Cup finals since the 1978 men’s tournament.

Yesterday (November 7), she received an honorary Doctor of Science (DSc) at Chester Cathedral, from the University of Chester.

Professor Eunice Simmons, the university’s vice-chancellor, said: “It’s an honour to welcome Cheryl Foster, who has done so much to promote women’s football, and we’re delighted to award her with an honorary Doctor of Science.”

Cheryl added: "I am deeply honoured to receive this honorary doctorate degree from the University of Chester in recognition of my contributions to women's football.

“This recognition is a testament to the power of sport in empowering women and inspiring future generations.”

In June 2023, Foster also took charge of the Women’s Champions League final between Barcelona and Wolfsburg at PSV Stadium in Eindhoven.

Previously, she became the first Welsh woman to referee at a major tournament when she took charge of matches at Euro 2022, including the semi-final between Germany and France.

Foster enjoyed a successful playing career as a forward which included nine years with Liverpool, playing for the club at the start of England's FA Women's Super League.

Her former clubs also included Bangor City and St. Francis.

She made her senior international debut for Wales in 1997, and in 2009, became the all-time record appearance holder for Wales, eventually winning 63 caps in 14 years.

Since retiring in 2013, she has been an international referee since 2015, as well as teaching at The Bishops' Blue Coat Church of England High School in Chester.