Wigan Warriors icons Sir Billy Boston and Stuart Fielden honoured at RL Lions luncheon
Two former Wigan Warriors favourites were honoured at the recent Rugby League Lions Association annual reunion luncheon, as Sir Billy Boston and Stuart Fielden took centre stage among the sport’s greats.
Sir Billy was the guest of honour at the prestigious event and received a standing ovation from the assembled guests. The 91-year-old became the first person to be knighted for his rugby league achievements in the King’s Birthday Honours last summer, in recognition of his outstanding contribution to the game.
A genuine trailblazer, Sir Billy made a stunning impact on the international stage with the 1954 Great Britain Lions tour after joining Wigan from Cardiff. His presence ensured that representatives from seven decades of Lions touring were in attendance at the luncheon.
One of the standout moments of the day came when Sir Billy took to the stage to share memories from the 1966 Great Britain tour, alongside fellow former internationals Ian Brooke and Colin Clarke, providing a rare and memorable insight into a golden era of the sport.
Former Warriors powerhouse Fielden was also recognised, receiving his Lions heritage certificate in honour of his international career. Fielden, who played a key role in Great Britain’s famous 2006 Tri-Nations victory, was presented with his certificate by former Lions head coach Brian Noble MBE, alongside fellow international James Roby.
The lunch also welcomed a number of attendees from more recent Lions tours, including Karl Harrison, Daryl Powell and Paul Sculthorpe MBE, who were presented with their heritage certificates by former Leeds and Great Britain winger Alan Smith.
Abi Ekoku, Interim Chief Executive of the Rugby Football League, was also presented with a heritage certificate for her role as Great Britain’s team manager during the 2006 Tri-Nations series, as was Jon Sharp, who served as one of Noble’s assistant coaches.
Speaking after the event, Ekoku said: “International representation is the pinnacle of sporting achievement, and it’s vitally important we continue to celebrate heroes of the past. To see Sir Billy Boston share the stage with fellow Lions greats was truly unforgettable.
“It was a truly fantastic occasion, capped off by having Sir Billy Boston, Colin Clarke and Ian Brooke share a stage together. It’s something I will never forget and sincerely hope to remain a part of the event moving forward."