Bedford Girls’ School is proud to celebrate the success of three former students who continue to make a significant impact in the sporting world, with honours spanning the Commonwealth Games, England Women A selection and national recognition from the England and Wales Cricket Board.

Cycling sensation, Sophie Lewis, who left BGS in 2020, has been selected to represent Team England at the Glasgow 2026 Commonwealth Games. Sophie returns to the Commonwealth stage following her impressive bronze medal performance at Birmingham 2022. This summer, she will once again compete in the women’s endurance events, with her sight firmly set on the top step of the podium. She joins a formidable line-up that includes world champions Josie Knight and Maddie Leech.

Another alumna making her mark is Izzy Gurney, who left BGS in 2017, has been recognised by the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) as one of 53 women shaping the future of cricket ahead of the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup. As Programme Manager and Safeguarding Lead at the MCC Foundation, Izzy has been honoured for her outstanding contribution to the game. She’s received a prestigious purple chair at Edgbaston Cricket Ground, one of 53 seats revealed in Birmingham celebrating the diverse roles women hold in cricket since 1973. This lasting tribute recognises her impact on championing girls’ cricket and her safeguarding leadership.

Former BGS Sports Captain Flo Miller, who left in 2022, has also reached an exciting new milestone after earning selection for the England Women A squad to face India this summer. Flo, who plays for Essex, is part of the England Women A T20 squad for a series that includes three T20 fixtures in late June, with the wider England Women A programme also featuring three 50-over matches across late June and early July.

Flo’s journey since leaving BGS has been impressive. She recently signed a two-year contract extension with Essex Women, keeping her at the club until 2028.

Mrs Verity Mason-McLeod, Director of Sport at BGS, said: “We are incredibly proud of Sophie, Izzy and Flo and all they have achieved since leaving BGS. They represent the strength of our sporting legacy and show our current students what is possible through hard work, commitment and a love of sport. They are inspiring role models for the next generation, both in their success and in the way they are helping to shape sport at every level.”