Wigan school pupils paid tribute to rugby hero Sir Billy Boston during Black History Month

Students at a Wigan school marked Black History Month with a series of activities celebrating the life and legacy of rugby league legend Sir Billy Boston.

St John Fisher Catholic High School’s head of history Jo Dibben delivered assemblies highlighting Sir Billy's remarkable story, from leaving his home in Wales to pursue a rugby league career in Wigan after being denied the opportunity to play rugby union for Wales because of racial prejudice, to becoming one of the sport's greatest ever players.

Students were given a unique opportunity to view memorabilia from Sir Billy's distinguished career, including his MBE medal and Great Britain cap, which were taken into school by his grandson Gareth Murray, the school’s alternative provision manager.

As part of the celebrations, members of the school's Sketch Club, guided by reset room manager Jane Kenny, created a large-scale collaborative artwork paying tribute to the Wigan rugby league icon.

The piece, produced over several weeks, was unveiled to Mr Murray and showcased the creativity and teamwork of the students involved.

The activities reflected this year's Black History Month theme Honouring Our Communities, while recognising Sir Billy’s enduring impact on both the world of rugby league and the Wigan community.