The Offerton community celebrated one of its most remarkable residents this month.

On 9 July, the Offerton Park Community Association hosted a screening of The Corinthians: We Were The Champions, a BBC documentary telling the story of Corinthians Ladies FC, a local club who defied the English Football Association's 50-year ban on women playing to become global champions.

The event aimed to recognise the achievements of Offerton resident Myra Lypnyckyj, who was herself one of the original Corinthians players and who also stars in the documentary.

Among the attendees were local residents and community groups, along with Myra herself and Cllr Mark Hunter, mayor of Stockport.

Myra played for The Corinthians Ladies FC from the 1950s into the 1960s, travelling with the team and taking part in matches at home and overseas at a time when women's football in England was still banned in Football Association grounds.

The team achieved huge success, including winning the European Cup, and went on to become one of the best known women's sides of the era.

Myra and the other squad members helped keep the game alive by showing that talent, commitment and love of football still existed despite the barriers placed in their way.

In March 2026, the Football Association issued an apology for the ban on women's football, which was introduced in 1921 and not lifted until 1971, following a campaign to recognise the Corinthians' place in sporting history.

In the documentary, Myra maintains that the team's main motivation was simply love of playing football.

Councillor Dan Oliver, cabinet member for communities, culture and public protection at Stockport Council, said: "Myra's story is one that Stockport should be incredibly proud of.

"As part of Offerton Park Estate's 60 year celebrations, this screening was an opportunity to recognise not only a sporting pioneer, but also a valued member of the Offerton community who continues to be actively involved in local life today.

"The story is one of courage, determination and resilience, and it is wonderful that residents were able to come together to celebrate one of Stockport's own and the lasting impact she has had both on and off the pitch."

Alison Warwood, CEO of Stockport County Community Trust, said: "It was a privilege to celebrate Myra's contribution to the incredible legacy of the Corinthians here in her hometown of Stockport by presenting her with a signed Stockport County shirt.

"We were delighted to join this special celebration alongside the Lord Mayor and recognise Myra's remarkable achievements.

"The story of the Corinthians is one of courage, determination and breaking down barriers. It is only right that we celebrate one of our own who helped shape the history of women's football.

"At Stockport County Community Trust, we are passionate about inspiring people through the power of sport, and we hope Myra's story encourages the next generation to believe that anything is possible."

Tracey Neville, Managing Director of Stockport County Women FC, said: "Myra and the rest of the Corinthians were true pioneers who helped pave the way for today's players by breaking down barriers and inspiring generations long before women's football received the recognition it deserved.

"Events like this are so important because they ensure these stories are never forgotten. Myra and her teammates have left a lasting legacy, and I hope their journey encourages more young people across Stockport to believe in themselves and follow their ambitions."

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