Lark Atkin-Davies: Red Rose, ‘hair plaiter’

Available for over a year

Lark Atkin-Davies, who grew up on the Herefordshire/Shropshire border, says the activity is part of her pre-match rituals. The veteran hooker and world cup winner also shares the secrets behind some of her tattoos – including touching tributes to family members, her husband and also her favourite food! There is also her squad number tattooed on her ankle, a tradition many England players follow in, although there are no plans, as of yet, for a group tattoo should the Red Roses perform well. Born in the village of Little Hereford, Lark went to Orleton Primary School – where her dad was a renowned music teacher – followed by Wigmore High School, Ludlow College and then the University of Worcester. The multiple Six Nations grand slam winner began her rugby career at Luctonians near Leominster, was a former captain at Worcester Valkyries (later Worcester Warriors Women) and also played for Loughborough Lightning. She now plays for Bristol Bears. Image credit: Getty/World Rugby/Molly Darlington