Our Heritage
Nearly 100 years of community, sport, and pride in Ince. From the legends who put The Bridge on the map to the next generation writing the next chapter — this is our story.
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Year Founded
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Bill Ashurst Career Appearances
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Great Britain Caps
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Years of Grassroots Rugby
A Club Built on Community
In 1926, rugby league began in the heart of Ince-in-Makerfield. What grew from that founding spirit is one of the most loved and longest-serving grassroots sports clubs in Greater Manchester — a place where generations of families have played, volunteered, cheered, and belonged.
Ince Rose Bridge has always been more than a rugby club. It's a community institution. And its heritage is woven from the stories of the people who gave their time, talent, and passion to this place — on the pitch and off it.
From legendary players who went on to represent Great Britain, to the formation of the Pantheresses girls section, to our recent recognition as a registered charity — every chapter of this club's history is worth celebrating.
Key Moments in Club History
From humble origins in Ince to a thriving multi-sport charity — the milestones that shaped The Bridge into what it is today.
Bill Ashurst — Panther No. 100
Born and raised in Ince, Bill Ashurst came through the ranks at Rose Bridge and went on to become one of the finest rugby league players this club — and this country — has ever produced.
The Player
Bill Ashurst made his name as a powerhouse forward with a playing career that took him from the terraces of Ince all the way to the international stage. He represented Wigan at the highest level of the domestic game before earning Great Britain honours — a distinction few players from grassroots clubs in Wigan ever reach.
His journey then took him to Penrith Panthers in Australia, where he became part of their all-time squad — a remarkable honour that speaks to his standing in the global game, not just in the North West.
The Mural
In October 2023, the club unveiled a striking new mural in Bill's honour, created by renowned local artist Snow Graffiti. Known for his highly detailed and lifelike work, the artist produced a tribute that captures both the image and the legacy of a true great — installed at the heart of the club where Bill's journey first began.
The unveiling was a proud and emotional occasion. Members, players, supporters, and the wider community gathered — and most importantly, Bill's family were there. Their presence turned a celebration of sporting achievement into something far more personal and meaningful.
The Pantheresses
Bill's influence lives on in the club's girls' section — the Rose Bridge Pantheresses. Named in tribute to his time at Penrith Panthers, the name creates a permanent link between one of our greatest ever players and the next generation of women coming through the club.
Meet the Pantheresses
Hall of Fame
Every great club is built on the shoulders of those who came before. These are the players, coaches, and volunteers who helped make Ince Rose Bridge what it is. The Hall of Fame is growing — if you know a name that deserves to be here, get in touch.
Bill Ashurst
Wigan, Great Britain & Penrith Panthers. 300+ career appearances. 8 Great Britain caps. The greatest player to come through The Bridge.
The Founding Members
The men and women of Ince who started it all in 1926 — building a club from nothing that would outlast them all by a century.
Your Name Here
The Hall of Fame is a living record. If you played here, coached here, or gave your time to this club — your story is part of our heritage.
Built to Last Another Hundred Years
The mural of Bill Ashurst stands at the heart of the club — not just as a tribute to one man, but as a symbol of everything Ince Rose Bridge represents. Positioned where players train and families gather, it reminds every person who walks through that gate that greatness starts here. In Ince. On this very ground.
Initiatives like the Hall of Fame, the Pantheresses naming, and the mural programme are part of the club's ongoing commitment to honouring its past as it builds its future. With a new site at Imperial Field secured and grant funding confirmed, the next century of this club is already beginning to take shape.
Ince Rose Bridge is proud of where it came from. And prouder still of where it's going.
Your Questions Answered
The club's heritage belongs to everyone who's part of it. Here's how you can write the next chapter — and the questions we get asked most often.
Be Part of What Comes Next
The heritage of Ince Rose Bridge is written by its people. Play, volunteer, sponsor, or just come and watch. Your chapter starts here.