Ramsdale stands down

The Parliamentary Rugby League Group has announced Mark Ramsdale has stood down from his role in the Group’s Secretariat.

Ramsdale had been in post since 2008, and helps to run one of the most active Parliamentary groups in Westminster.

Leeds North West MP Greg Mulholland, a keen advocate of our game, highlighted the work done by Ramsdale while in post.

“We are indebted to Mark for all the work he has done to support the Group and rugby league,” said Mulholland.

“He revolutionised the operations of the Group and has made it into the powerhouse that it is today. 

“Much of his efforts take place behind the scenes, but can be seen today across so many aspects of the sport at all levels.

“I am very pleased he has accepted our request for him to remain involved in the Group in an counselling capacity.”

Ramsdale was responsible for managing the Group and RFL’s successful campaigns against BBC cuts that would have removed coverage of all games on local radio.

He also coordinated work against the North West Development Agency’s decision to not honour a £250,000 pledge to the 2013 Rugby League World Cup.

“I am grateful to all Members and Officers for allowing me to play a part over the last eight-plus years in supporting the sport I care about and that can and does so much for people,” Ramsdale wrote in a letter to the Group’s officers.

“It was very much a dream role and I am very pleased to have played a part in some very important things the Group has done for the game.”

Ramsdale will be replaced by Jack Baker, who has been in a supporting role for the last two years.

Baker is an Oxford graduate, originally from Hull, who plays for and coaches the Brixton Bulls RLFC.